The interaction of health professionals and their lesbian clients

Abstract

While most literature suggests that health problems of lesbians vary little from those of heterosexual patients, there is some evidence to suggest that lesbians have greater problems interacting with health professionals because of misconceptions and homophobic fears of these professionals. The following study of 38 lesbians in Salt Lake City provides some indication of the concerns most identified by the lesbian client when seeking health care. Results of this study indicate the following: few lesbians “come out” to their practitioner; many delay health care because of their fears; there is evidence of inappropriate behavior from some professionals when lesbians reveal their sexual preference; and among those who have not come out, apprehension about what the professional might say or do is evident. Results also show that some examinations are viewed as less comfortable when administered by male professionals. This study reminds health professionals that lesbian clients expect to be treated with the same sensitivity and dignity as non-lesbian clients, and that often professional care may be enhanced by better communication, sensitive referral to professionals who are more comfortable in caring for lesbian concerns, and better self-awareness on the part of practitioners regarding their feelings and behavior toward gay clients.