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10-11-2023 | Original Article

Exploring the knowledge, attitudes, and practices on sexual and gender minorities patients: a survey on Italian Neurologists

Authors: Alessandra Nicoletti, Loretta Giuliano, Giulia Donzuso, Calogero Edoardo Cicero, on behalf of the Gender Neurology Study Group of the Italian Society of Neurology

Published in: Neurological Sciences | Issue 4/2024

Abstract

Background

Sexual and gender minorities (SGM) encompass individuals identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ). SGM patients experience difficulties in accessing healthcare and may face discrimination, impacting their overall health outcomes. Enhancing healthcare professionals’ knowledge is the initial step in dismantling these barriers.

Materials and methods

The study has been conducted on the neurologists of the Italian Society of Neurology (SIN). We utilized a survey instrument comprising 24 Likert-type questions to investigate knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning sexual orientation and gender identity minorities. Likert scales were assessed with scores 1 and 2 as negative response, 3 as neutral, and 4 and 5 as positive responses.

Results

A total of 177 neurologists (103 women; 58.2%) participated, with a mean age of 44.3 ± 14.6 years answered the survey. Over half recognized sexual and gender orientation as social determinants of health, yet only a minority acknowledged the elevated prevalence of physical and mental health issues in SGM populations. Nearly, all respondents felt confident in examining a sexual minority patient, while only half felt the same regarding transgender patients. The majority of neurologists expressed a need for more comprehensive training and supervision in treating SGM patients.

Conclusion

To enhance healthcare quality for SGM populations, healthcare professionals must receive appropriate training in how to approach, assess, and treat patients within this demographic.

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Title: Exploring the knowledge, attitudes, and practices on sexual and gender minorities patients: a survey on Italian Neurologists
Authors: Alessandra Nicoletti
Loretta Giuliano
Giulia Donzuso
Calogero Edoardo Cicero
on behalf of the Gender Neurology Study Group of the Italian Society of Neurology
Publication date: 10-11-2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Published in: Neurological Sciences / Issue 4/2024
Print ISSN: 1590-1874
Electronic ISSN: 1590-3478
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-023-07181-1

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Exploring the knowledge, attitudes, and practices on sexual and gender minorities patients: a survey on Italian Neurologists

Abstract

Background

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

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