A Call for the Creation of LGBTQ+ Competencies for Hospice and Palliative Medicine (HPM) Fellowship Programs

Abstract

Context: LGBTQ+ people and their families have unique needs, concerns, and issues when navigating serious illness.

Objectives: To develop curricular milestones and an educational framework for hospice and palliative medicine (HPM) fellowship programs to meet the needs of this community.

Methods: A working group has developed a plan for the inclusion of LGBTQ+ competencies in HPM fellowship programs, utilizing input from an AAHPM Special Interest Group (SIG) at a national meeting.

Discussion: Learning to provide culturally competent care is essential for all HPM providers. Our group recommends specific clinical training competencies with plans to pilot them in upcoming academic years. Creating curricular recommendations will help guide fellowship programs education in the care of LGBTQ+ patients with serious illness.

Keywords: LGBTQ+; cultural competency; fellowship education; graduate medical education.