“Expectation is Always that the Practitioner Might Not Be Okay with Queerness”: Experiences of LGBTQ+ With the Healthcare System in Saskatchewan, Canada

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis project aimed to explore the experiences of perceived mistrust and stigma by the LGBTQ+ members while accessing healthcare services in Saskatchewan, Canada. In partnership with local organization, a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach was employed and, semi structured descriptive interviews were conducted. Sixteen participants ranging from age 20–60 were recruited and interviewed. Inductive coding method with thematic data analysis was performed, and descriptive comprehensive results were produced. The LGBTQ+ community reported negative experiences within the context of four emerging themes: (a) perceived stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings, (b) practitioners’ LGBTQ+-specific healthcare knowledge, (c) the need for LGBTQ+-specific cultural sensitivity and inclusion, and (d) a call for changes in healthcare policy. Each theme and its corresponding experiences serve as a baseline of information to demonstrate the need for improved access to safe healthcare and increased sustainable health for the LGBTQ+ community members. This calls for training and education, establishing cultural sensitivity, and mandating policy changes could improve the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community members.