Experiences of lesbians in the health care environment

Openness about one's sexual orientation in the health care context contributes to lesbians satisfaction with care and to continued use of health services. We undertook a qualitative study to examine lesbians experiences in the health care environment and explain why openness about sexual orientation may be resisted by lesbians. Data were derived from four focus groups conducted with lesbians who discussed their expectations and preferences for their health care, as well as their met and unmet health care needs. Transcripts of the focus groups were analyzed using NUD*IST qualitative software to derive salient themes presented by the women. Five major themes were identified: anxiety and concern related to self-disclosure, non-disclosure of sexual orientation, seeking out gay-positive physicians, frustration with assumptions of heterosexuality, and treatment of lesbian partners. Examples for each of the major themes are provided. Data from this study suggest ways health care providers can alleviate concerns among lesbian patients. Our findings also suggest the need for formal training on lesbian health and methods for making medical professionals more comfortable with diverse sexual orientations.