Healthcare for LGBTQIA+ People: What Do Patients Say?

Background: Recognising sexual and gender diversity as a social marker of difference and an indicator of vulnerability in accessing comprehensive healthcare, this research aims to explore the perceptions of self-declared LGBTQIA+ people in relation to health care received in Brazil. Methods: This was a quantitative cross-sectional observational study carried out using an anonymous online form disseminated through social media using a snowball strategy, aimed at LGBTQIA+ people living in Brazil. The instrument contained a sociodemographic questionnaire and semi-structured questions about the medical care provided and the identification of prejudiced attitudes. Results: 134 people took part, with an average age of 30, the majority black, cisgender and homosexual. The quality of care received was positive for 35.8 per cent of the participants and 47.8 per cent reported easy access to healthcare. There was a greater perception of difficulty in access among people on low incomes when compared to people on high incomes (p < 0.05). In the healthcare environment, 31.3% said they had already suffered discrimination for being LGBTQIA+, with gynaecology being the area most frequently mentioned. 63.4% believe that there should be specific environments to meet their needs and 85% perceive that health professionals are not prepared to deal with LGBTQIA+ people. Conclusions: There was a high prevalence of discrimination related to their sexuality in the healthcare environment, especially in gynaecological consultations. The majority of LGBTQIA+ participants believe that health professionals are not prepared to provide care to this public.