Experiences of Discrimination and LGBTQ+ Healthcare Avoidance

Research has shown that the LGBTQ+ community – which encompasses sexual and gender minority individuals (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other queer identities) – experiences health disparities and barriers in accessing healthcare. The current work examined the two sides of the coin of healthcare discrimination: on one hand, the consequences of healthcare discrimination events in LGBTQ+ patients (Study 1, N = 237) and, on the other hand, the predictors of LGBTQ+ attitudes among healthcare professionals (HCPs) (Study 2, N = 234). Through two cross-sectional survey studies in European samples, we identified that LGBTQ+ patients who have experienced healthcare discrimination exhibit reduced trust in healthcare systems, increased LGBTQ+ minority stress, and more healthcare-avoidance behaviours. Also, predictors of positive LGBTQ+ attitudes among HCPs included contact with LGBTQ+ people in the social circle; higher emphasis on the Harm/Care and Fairness/Reciprocity Moral Foundations, and lower emphasis on the Purity/Sanctity principle; as well as being female, politically liberal, non-religious HCP, or living in an urbanised area. These findings add to the body of literature of LGBTQ+ health disparities and are used for recommending practical interventions, with the aim of maximizing access to healthcare for this population who already has a vulnerable health status

Health care · Political science · Psychoanalysis · Queer · LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy · Psychology