Competence of physicians in providing health care to LGBT adolescents in a national tertiary hospital

Abstract

Objective: The competence of health workers to attend to vulnerable and marginalized populations is critical to health equity. The study determines the competence of physicians in providing health care to LGBT adolescents in a national tertiary hospital.

Methodology: All physicians from the departments of Pediatrics and Family and Community Medicine were recruited. An electronic form collected demographic data and responses to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Development of Clinical Skills Scale (LGBTDOCSS).Theresponsesweresummarizedandanalyzed.

Results: Most respondents are male, with a mean age of 34.21 years. They are mainly staff of the Department of Pediatrics and post- residency fellows. Not all recall their participation in gender sensitivity training. They report scores towards the higher end of the scale: an overall score of 5.27 and mean subscale scores of 4.43 for clinical preparedness, 6.13 for attitudinal awareness, and 5.24 for basic knowledge. The heterogeneity and pertinacity of their experiences with LGBT individuals mediate their attitudinal awareness. Attaining the level of consultant suggests a better understanding of barriers and disparities against LGBT individuals. The tool has good internal reliability.

Conclusion: The demographic profile of the respondents suggests their involvement in healthcare, continuing education, and staff development. They report adequate competence in providing health care to LGBT adolescents.