The Health Access Initiative: A Training and Technical Assistance Program to Improve Health Care for Sexual and Gender Minority Youth

Abstract

PurposeThis article describes the Health Access Initiative (HAI), an intervention to improve the general and sexual health care experiences of sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) by providing training and technical assistance to providers and staff. The training consisted of an online and in-person training, followed by site-specific technical assistance. We present the findings of a pilot evaluation of the program with 10 diverse clinics in Michigan. MethodsThis program was developed using community-based participatory research principles. Based on a framework of cultural humility, program activities are guided by the Situated Information–Motivation–Behavioral Skills Model. The mixed method program evaluation used training feedback surveys assessing program feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness; pre/post surveys assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward SGMY; and in-depth interviews with site liaisons assessing technical assistance and structural change. ResultsThe HAI is a highly feasible and acceptable intervention for providers and staff at a variety of health care sites serving adolescents and emerging adults. The results from 10 clinics that participated in the HAI indicate strong intervention efficacy, with significant and meaningful improvements seen in the knowledge of, attitudes toward, and practices with SGMY reported by providers and staff at 6-month follow-up compared with baseline, as well as in qualitative interviews with site liaisons. ConclusionsThe HAI is a promising intervention to improve the quality of primary and sexual health care provided to SGMY. Expanded implementation with continued evaluation is recommended. The HAI may also be adapted to address specific health needs of SGMY beyond sexual health.