Aim
LGBTQIA+ people face disproportionate cancer-related health disparities. Creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ people can foster a relationship with healthcare providers and improve communication about client needs. In response, Cancer Council SA implemented an inclusive and accepting model of care into its 13 11 20 Information and Support service for people impacted by cancer. The model included asking a caller’s gender identity and where appropriate, facilitating conversations around gender and sexuality, and cancer.
Methods
A half-day training was developed in consultation with LGBTQIA+ community stakeholders and delivered to Cancer Council SA 13 11 20 nurses. A self-report survey evaluated how the training influenced nurses’ knowledge and understanding of cancer among the LGBTQIA+ community, and their experiences of asking a caller’s gender identity.
Results
Training was developed in collaboration with SAMESH, a partnership between Shine SA and Thorne Harbour Health. Training was delivered by SAMESH and provided information regarding gender- and sexual-diversity; health impacts of social stigma; anti-discrimination laws; and creating a safe and inclusive environment. Approaches to asking a caller’s gender and discussing gender-related sensitive information were informed by the training. These practices were refined in consultation with Shine SA nurses and LGBTQIA+ community members before being adopted into the 13 11 20 care model.
Results of the survey will inform understanding of how practice is enhanced or challenged by acknowledging gender-identity, from the perspective of Cancer Council SA 13 11 20 nurses.
Conclusions
Cancer Council SA recognises the need to provide services and care to LGBTIQIA+ people that is inclusive and accepting. By providing person centred care and sensitively identifying people of this community by asking their gender identity, the Cancer Council SA 13 11 20 Information and Support service strives to minimise distress, reduce inequities and meet the information and support needs of this diverse group.