Exploring Factors Affecting Patient–Provider Interactions and Healthcare Engagement Among a Diverse Sample of Women Who Have Sex with Women in New York City

Abstract

Women who have sex with women (WSW) have lower rates of engagement in health care and preventive screenings than women who have sex exclusively with men. Existing literature provides limited insight into how intersecting and overlapping identities, such as race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, and identities related to gender expression, may shape individuals’ experiences within health care. We conducted qualitative interviews in New York City with 30 people who identified as women, reported sex with people who identify as women, were age 18–65, and were diverse in race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation and gender identity. The semi-structured questionnaire asked participants about positive and negative healthcare experiences to elicit what could encourage or prevent seeking care, with a focus on provider-related factors. Factors that led to positive healthcare experiences included having a provider who was knowledgeable about LGBTQ experience and health and who affirmed their sexuality, gender identity, and other intersecting identities. Factors that contributed to negative healthcare experiences included poor interactions with providers, and providers’ perceived heteronormativity and lack of awareness of WSW healthcare needs. WSW of different races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and gender identities seek validating healthcare experiences that acknowledge and affirm their identities. We present a visual summary of the main thematic factors that contributed to positive and negative WSW healthcare experiences. Increasing access to care requires training providers on how to engage WSW patients, including WSW of diverse race/ethnicity and gender identity and expression.