How can LGBTQ cultural competency be increased in a health care setting?

The LGBTQ+ community faces unique challenges related to their sexual orientation and gender identity when trying to access healthcare services. Issues such as discrimination, lack of access to care and lack of cultural or knowledge competency from the healthcare system are prevalent in today's society and leads to worsening health outcomes. Understanding specific needs of this community can improve health outcomes and patient satisfaction leading to better overall health outcomes for the LGBTQ+ community. Literature review of 20 peer reviewed articles. Utilized several databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, PsychInfo, Academic Search Complete, MEDLINE, and ScienceDirect. Utilized a matrix format to gather and organize information. After completion of the cultural competency training, the AIM scores increased significantly in all three categories ‚ knowledge and skills, openness and support, and oppression awareness. Implicating this into psychiatric nursing practice, we see the importance of incorporating a solid knowledge base regarding LGBTQ individuals. This can be achieved via workplace workshops, implementation of courses in undergraduate classes, and taking personal responsibility to learn topics on your own time. Reinforces the importance of self-reflection and checking your own personal biases when working with transgender patients. This results in a health care environment that is free from judgment.
Poster submission was sponsored by Ruhina Rana, (Health Sciences Department) for Psychiatric Nursing course and was presented at the Coquitlam campus on April 5, 2023, for Student Research Days 2023.