An Evidenced-Based Mission?

There was some discussion at our annual meeting about the mission of our group. There was a general feeling that homosexuality is a lot more accepted nowadays, making it is easier for young members to come out--therefore there may not be a high level of support needed. However, I found this article, from 2008, that sheds some light on attitudes toward our gay, lesbian and bi patients. There are a few interesting points to be made. For one, while there are a majority, 67%, who feel comfortable with GLB patients, that also means there is a significant percentage, 33%, who would feel uncomfortable! This is an unacceptable number in a profession that emphasizes inclusivity and cultural acceptance. We still have work to do!

Another interesting point is that only 11% of OTs and COTAs said they received training on GLB issues and 19% received education about GLB issues! Seems like something we might advocate for in school curriculums...or better yet for inclusion in the NBCOT exam, which would be an incentive for schools to offer programming. Just a thought...comments are welcome below!

 ABSTRACT: Occupational therapists and other allied health professionals face diversity with their clients, including sexual orientation. The purpose of this study was to determine the preparedness and comfort level of occupational therapy practitioners in working with gay, lesbian, and bisexual clients. A 23-item survey was mailed to 1,051 practitioners in a midwestern state. Eighty-eight were undeliverable and 373 usable surveys were returned, yielding a 39% response rate. Most respondents felt prepared and comfortable to work with clients who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual, and 48% agreed that sexuality influences occupational choices.
Twenty-nine percent agreed that sexual orientation influences occupational therapy treatment. Less than 20% of the respondents, however, received education and used inclusive language in their documentation, and only 14% reported having resources and support services for clients who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual. Effective education and policy-making strategies are necessary to ensure an accepting therapeutic environment and respect for the role of sexual orientation in the intervention process.

Javaherian, H., Christy, A, B., Boehringer, M. (2008). Occupational therapy practitioners’ comfort level and preparedness in working with individuals who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual. Journal of Allied Health, 37, 150-155.