LGBTIQ+ inclusive healthcare learning resources

LGBTIQ+ Inclusive Healthcare – learning resources were developed for Tasmanian health sector staff. Content was designed collaboratively with members of the Tasmanian LGBTIQ+ community, community-based groups and organisations, healthcare workers, and learning design consultants. The resources were launched by the Minister for Health in December 2021.

The learning resources include an introductory online module, videos with community members, a discussion guide, webpage with further information, videos, and support tools (posters, stickers).

LGBTIQ+ inclusive healthcare | Tasmanian Department of Health

Why did you develop your project?

The Department of Health’s LGBTIQ+ Reference Group identified the need to train, inform, and reorient the public health workforce based on:

• Community experiences highlighting the need for a more informed health workforce and an inclusive healthcare system.
• The substantial evidence that reports the issues faced by members of the LGBTIQ+ community and the impacts to their wellbeing.  Writing Themselves In 4, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University & Private Lives 3, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University. Plus Tasmanian research
• Feedback from health workers that they wanted to know more about LGBTIQ+ language and how to respond.

What did you do?   What worked well?

• A learning system approach was used which recognises learners have diverse needs, experiences, and preferences about What they want to know, and how they do this.
• The module was developed in-house so can be adapted and updated. A diversity of resources on a range of topics are available.
• The learning resources were developed collaboratively with members of the LGBTIQ+ community. Community voices are embedded in the content.

What did not work so well?  What lessons were learned?

• Feedback from other online training informed the development of the LGBTIQ+ inclusive healthcare module.  Learners have shared their love of quizzes but their dislike in feeling tested. Learners also said they liked an interactive, engaging approach.

What did the project achieve?  What’s the outcome, or impact?

• The feedback from the LGBTIQ+ community and learners has been positive. Healthcare workers have shared that they feel empowered and more comfortable working with diverse identifying people.
• The inclusive consultation process has resulted in a product that is well supported and regarded by the LGBTIQ+ community.

How are the principles of Working in Health Promoting Ways reflected in your project ?

Evidence informed practice

The learning system and instructional design approach are evidence informed strategies for delivering on-line learning that is engaging.

The learning content was informed by both national and local research as well as recommended guidelines for inclusive practice.

A feedback system ensures that the experiences of learners is continually monitored.

Equity

Research indicates that for many LGBTIQ+ people their experiences with health services can be negative.

The learning resources aim to ensure our health system is inclusive, welcoming, safe, and respectful for LGBTIQ+ Tasmanians.

Systems change

The learning module complements other strategies that the Department of Health and the Whole of Government LGBTIQ+ Reference group are undertaking to achieve an improved health care experience for the Tasmanian LGBTIQ+ community.

Engaging people

The learning resources were co-produced.  LGBTQI+ people shared their expertise, presented content, shaped, and reviewed stories, and contributed experiences.  The result is a powerful learning resource with local people being seen and heard. 

The learning resource content models the respectful and inclusive ethos that learners are being asked to practice.

How has working in health promoting ways benefitted your team? And helped your clients?

The development of the Learning Resources is a key achievement for the Department of Health’s LGBTIQ+ Reference Group who identified this as a need.

Working together with people across DoH, as well as partner organisations and the LGBTIQ+ community leads to many people supporting and promoting the learning resources.