Objective There are limited data on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) health and healthcare experiences. An important part of healthcare experiences are interactions with the provider. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practice behaviors of oncology providers regarding LGBT health. Methods A 32-item web-based survey was emailed to 388 oncology providers at a single institution. The survey was divided into five sections: demographics, knowledge, attitudes, practice behaviors, and open comments. Results 108 providers participated in the survey (28% response rate). Less than 50% answered the knowledge questions. 94% stated they were comfortable treating this population. 26% actively inquired about a patient’s sexual orientation when taking a history and 28% felt they were well informed on the health needs of this population. 36% felt the need for mandatory education on LGBT cultural competency at the institution. Results from the open comments section identified key themes such as the need for increased oncology provider education and a misconception that inquiring about a patient’s sexual orientation/gender identity wasn’t necessary. Conclusion This study revealed knowledge gaps about LGBT health risks in the majority of providers surveyed. Cultural competency training may aid oncology providers to understand the need to know a patient’s gender identity and sexual orientation. Practice Implications Health care providers who incorporate the routine collection of gender identity and sexual orientation (SOGI) in their patient history taking may improve patient care. While identifying as LGBT does not in itself increase risk for adverse health outcomes, this population tends to have increased risk behaviors. Providers who are aware of LGBT status of their patients may offer education, counseling and referrals for reduction of risk behaviors.

Background: The goal study of this was to explore attitudes, health knowledge, and experiences with healthcare setting and providers among gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (GLBTQ) individuals and to identify areas for improvement. Methods: Members of Equality Florida™ residing in the five counties of the Tampa Bay region were recruited through email invitation to complete a 60-item questionnaire assessing demographics, attitudes, and experiences with healthcare providers (HCPs). Additional open-ended questions focused on experiences with HCPs and suggestions for ways to improve HCPs’ cultural competency. Results: 632 respondents completed the survey of which 41% were gay men and 29% were lesbian. The majority of participants was White, non-Hispanic (93%), married/partnered (78%), and had health insurance (88%). The majority (67%) reported they always or often disclosed their sexual orientation/identity to an HCP and few had negative reactions in the healthcare setting (<10%). Healthcare settings with equality signs and gender-neutral language were perceived as safer. Participants’ responses suggested need for policy changes and improved cultural competence among HCPs. Conclusion: Results show high rates of sexual orientation disclosure, greater acceptance from providers of GLBTQ status, and the need for examination of hospital policies and improved cultural competency.

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