Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
4-20-2021
Abstract
Introduction
- APTA collects demographic data regarding racial diversity, but ignores gender and sexual diversity
- In the US, 4.5 percent of adults identified as LGBTQ+
- In Minnesota, 4.1 percent of adults identified as LGBTQ+
Objective
- Gain an improved understanding of the shared experiences and the potential underlying barriers that practicing and student PTs and PTAs from gender/sexual minorities in Minnesota encounter
- Results of the study will be used to assist MNPTA task force to improve diversity in PT/PTA education and practice in Minnesota
Methods
- The seven participants were practicing PT/PTAs or student from Minnesota
- Recruitment through flyer via email and distributed at MNPTA educational events, or personally invited by PI
- 90 minute online focus groups moderated by a PI
- Discussed choice of career path, perceived barriers, shared life experiences, and thoughts of improving LGBTQ+ acceptances and equality
- Groups were audio recorded, de-identified, transcribed, cleaned and then imported into NVIVO 12 software and coded
Conclusion
- Participants shared similar experiences across multiple aspects of their lives and encountered similar barriers and challenges as student and practicing PT/PTAs in Minnesota
- Future research should be conducted to explore the solutions proposed by participants and determine if there are other common major themes that exist
Clinical Relevance
- Important to understand barriers that LBGTQ+ PT/PTAs face in order to address the health disparities that exist in the Physical Therapy Profession in Minnesota
- Create an environment that is more inclusive and more representative of the growing diversity that exists in physical therapy by putting potential solutions into action
- Important to have PTs who are educated on the health disparities that exist in LBGTQ+ and uniquely understand their patients' needs
Recommended Citation
Lojovich, Jeanne PT, PhD; Wangsness-Willemsen, Laura PhD; Swan, Brennan; Miller, Jennifer; Litschewski, Jordan; and Rumicho, Naga, "Policies, Practices, and Pedagogies: A Qualitative Study of LGBTQ+ Representation in the Physical Therapy Profession" (2021). DPT Capstone Posters. 9.
https://digitalcommons.csp.edu/dpt-posters/9