Practices and Pedagogies: A Qualitative Study of LGBTQ+ Representation in Physical Therapy

Introduction U.S. LGBTQ+ community represents 4.5% of the total population.1 MN LGBTQ+ community represents ~4% of total population.2 Unclear what percentage of LGBTQ+ are represented in PT/PTA professions. APTA/MNPTA are attempting efforts to improve diversity in PT/PTA professions.3 Objective Aim to understand the successes, barriers, and shared experiences of under-represented who established careers as PTs or PTAs. Methods Subjects PT/PTA clinicians and students from the LGBTQ+ community Four Focus Groups Recruitment through flyers and PT/PTA programs in MN Virtual 90-minute focus groups 2-4 participants with 2 PIs and 2 trained students Data Analysis Audio recorded, transcribed and de-identified using Temi.com Coding and analysis using NVIVO12 Major Themes Major Theme 1: Belonging A sense of being approved of and accepted by society in general.4 Major Theme 2: Insufficiencies Something that is insufficient or falls short of expectations.4 Major Theme 3: Microaggressions Actions that often unconsciously expresses a prejudiced attitude toward a marginalized group.4 Major Theme 4: Potential Solutions Something that is used or done to deal with and end a problem.4 Conclusion Lacking feeling of belonging/support Invisible minority “Insufficiencies” All types of diversity “Solutions” Clinical Relevance Need to address microaggressions in the class/clinic Promoting LGBTQ+ acceptance and visibility in PT/PTA education Improve representation and understanding in the clinic to increase comfort and safety of LGBTQ+ clinicians, students and patients Use of preferred pronouns Multiple options for gender and sexual identity in forms Education for clinicians regarding LGBTQ+ issues Welcoming pamphlets and signag