Inclusive Health Conference: conference-based education as an intervention to address medical education deficits
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Abstract
Introduction: Physicians are responsible for the health of all patients, but medical students receive inadequate training on the health- care needs of LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) patients [1]. Education about cultural issues and proper termi- nology are also under-addressed. Healthcare practices that cannot demonstrate inclusivity risk alienating patients and perpetuating barriers to patient care for sexual and gender minorities [2].
Methods: In 2013, medical students created the Inclusive Health Conference to address these educational deficits. Experts were in- vited to present a curriculum including disorders of sexual development, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis, care for transgender patients, and development of inclusive practices. Self-identified sexual minority patients were also invited to share their experiences. Following these sessions, healthcare professionals and students were asked to complete a survey on knowledge and level of comfort with LGBTQ care.
Results: A majority of respondents stated that they “better understand LGBTQ health issues” (2015 mean 4.39, n = 41; 2016 mean 4.31, n = 52), “better understand social issues related to LGBTQ healthcare” (2015 mean 4.32, n = 41; 2016 mean 4.31, n = 52) and “feel more comfortable exploring and discussing these issues with LGBTQ people” (2015 mean 4.43, n = 41; 2016 mean 4.17, n = 52). Conclusions: Based on survey results, this was a successful solution to a critical omission in medical curricula. Of note, the conference also drew attention to this important issue, led to financial sponsorship by the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Medicine and Den- tistry, initiated curriculum updates, and inspired similar events at other institutions.
RÉSUMÉ
Introduction: Les médecins sont responsables de la santé de tous les patients, mais les étudiants en médecine reçoivent une forma- tion inadéquate en ce qui a trait aux besoins de soins de santé des patients LGBTQ (lesbienne, gai, bisexuel, trans et queer) [1]. Les enjeux culturels et la terminologie appropriée sont également trop peu abordés au cours de la formation. Les pratiques de soins de santé qui ne font pas preuve d’inclusion risquent d’aliéner les patients et de perpétuer les obstacles aux soins de santé pour les per- sonnes de minorités sexuelles et de genre [2].
Méthodes: En 2013, des étudiants en médecine ont créé la conférence Inclusive Health (santé inclusive) afin de combler ce manque éducationnel. Des experts ont été invités à présenter un curriculum qui incluait des désordres de développement sexuel, la prophylaxie préexposition contre le VIH, les soins aux patients transgenres, et l’élaboration de pratiques inclusives. Des patients ayant volontaire- ment déclaré leur appartenance à une minorité sexuelle ont également été invités à partager leurs expériences. À la suite de ces sé- ances, les professionnels de la santé et les étudiants ont rempli un sondage sur leurs connaissances et leur niveau de confort dans la prestation des soins de santé aux personnes LGBTQ.
Résultats: La majorité des personnes interrogées ont affirmé « mieux comprendre les problèmes de santé des personnes LGBTQ » (moyenne de 4,39 en 2015, n = 41 ; moyenne de 4,31 en 2016, n = 52), « mieux comprendre les enjeux sociaux liés à la prestation des soins de santé aux personnes LGBTQ » (moyenne de 4,32 en 2015, n = 41 ; moyenne de 4,31 en 2016, n = 52) et « se sentir plus à l’aise d’explorer et de discuter de ces problèmes avec les personnes LGBTQ » (moyenne de 4,43 en 2015, n = 41 ; moyenne de 4,17 en 2016, n = 52).
Conclusions: En se fondant sur les résultats du sondage, la conférence s’est avérée efficace pour contrer une omission importante dans les curriculums médicaux. En outre, la conférence a attiré l’attention sur cet important problème, a mené à un parrainage par la Faculté de médecine et de médecine dentaire de l’Université d’Alberta, a entraîné des mises à jour aux curriculums médicaux, et a inspiré des évènements semblables à d’autres établissements.
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References
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