Healthcare professionals' experiences and perceptions about LGBTIQA plus safety and responsiveness in a mainstream Australian health service: Qualitative findings 1

Objective: To explore experiences and perspectives of healthcare workers regarding LGBTIQA+ safety and responsiveness. Methods: Thematic analysis of semi-structured, in-depth interviews, and pre-surveys to collect demographics and knowledge self-rating scales. Results: Of 38 multidisciplinary healthcare staff, 44.7 % identified as LGBTIQA+ and 55.3 % as heterosexual and cisgender allies. Participants discussed experiences, noting strengths and gaps in affirming practice and organisational support, and training and education opportunities. Conclusions: Health services need to prioritise LGBTIQA+ safety and responsiveness for staff, patients, carers and families. LGBTIQA+ healthcare staff report that they have had experiences of trauma, minority stress, discrimination, homophobia and/or transphobia, and look for visible safe spaces at work and see safer clinical care.