Healthcare Service Utilization and Perceived Gaps: The Experience of French-Speaking 2S/LGBTQI+ People in Manitoba

Healthc Policy. 2024 Feb;19(3):62-77. doi: 10.12927/hcpol.2024.27239.

Abstract

Ethnolinguistically diverse 2S/LGBTQI+ (two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex) populations have unique healthcare needs and experience health inequities compared to their cisgender or heterosexual peers. This community-based participatory study sought to describe the profile and healthcare needs and experiences of official language minority French-speaking 2S/LGBTQI+ adults in Manitoba. Participants (N = 80) reported that gender and sexual identity were often concealed from service providers; many respondents faced discrimination based on their ethnolinguistic and sexual identities. Service gaps are identified pertaining to mental and sexual health; locating 2S/LGBTQI+-friendly, patient-centred care in French is difficult. Policy and practice should address systemic inequity and discrimination experienced by this equity-seeking population.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Community-Based Participatory Research
  • Female
  • Healthcare Disparities
  • Humans
  • Language
  • Male
  • Manitoba
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care*
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities*
  • Young Adult