Are we meeting the support needs of LGBT cancer patients and carers in radiotherapy and oncology? A service improvement report

Abstract

Keywords: LGBT, Psychological, supportive care, healthcare, radiotherapy, oncology. Introduction: 3.6 million people in the UK identify as LGBT [1,2]. LGBT cancer patients are not represented as often as heterosexual patients in research or in provision of resources. Many services can exclude LGBT people and have a heterosexist environment. Mental health issues have been found to be more prevalent in the LGBT community [3, 4], and may indicate a higher incidence of psychological distress after a cancer diagnosis. This research sets out to investigate what current service provision is available within the author’s organisation in terms of psychological support, and how this relates to current guidance within the literature. Method: The methodology employed for this research was in the form of a service improvement proposal that evaluates the services and resources provided for by the author’s organisation for LGBT cancer patients and carers. This includes a literature search of three databases to evaluate current guidance for support needs. Results: Twelve studies were reviewed. The main themes included: health care professional (HCP) knowledge and training, inclusive support groups and resources, prevalence of heterosexism, and any increase in mental health issues. Discussion and Conclusion: Within this particular organisation it was found that inclusive support groups and resources were limited. It is suggested that psychological distress is higher in LGBT cancer patients than in heterosexual patients meaning psychological support and resources are needed for this group. HCPs should provide an inclusive environment where LGBT people can feel safe. Sufficient sexual orientation and gender identity monitoring should be standard to be able to collect data for research and health outcomes. Education of LGBT specific health issues is important in meeting the needs of patients. Recommendations have been made to improve the services to be inclusive within the radiotherapy and oncology department, as well as the need to develop support services for LGBT cancer patients and carers. Education and training must be improved to ensure all HCP’s and support services have sufficient knowledge of LGBT cancer specific issues in order to better support all patients. Numerical