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Feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an LGBTQ+ inclusive communication skills training for multidisciplinary oncology healthcare providers

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: To test the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an LGBTQ+ inclusive communication skills training program. Two modules focused on basic LGBTQ+ sensitivity and communication with LGBTQ+ patients' families were delivered for multidisciplinary oncology healthcare professionals (HCPs) during two training sessions. Feasibility was determined through recruitment rate and adherence. Acceptability was evaluated based on course evaluations. Pre−/post-training assessments included LGBTQ+ healthcare knowledge, beliefs towards LGBTQ+ people, and self-efficacy. Participants were predominantly female (83%) and included 1 nurse, 2 chaplains, 8 nurse practitioners, and 7 physicians. Of the 22 HCPs who initially expressed interest and registered for the training, a total of 18 (82%) participated. 89% of participants completed post-training evaluations within one week. The training was rated favorably; 80% of participants “agreed” or “strongly agreed” with 13 of 15 course evaluation items. From pre- to post-training, LGBTQ+ health knowledge increased for 6 of 14 items and self-efficacy improved significantly for all 9 items evaluated (total score, d = 1.32); beliefs did not change between assessment points. An LGBTQ+ communication training for multidisciplinary oncology HCPs was feasible to deliver, acceptable to participants, and led to increases in LGBTQ+ healthcare knowledge and participant self-efficacy from pre- to post-training. LGBTQ+ inclusive communication training fills a crucial gap in HCP research, education, and practice, providing a novel experiential learning approach to mitigating health inequities for LGBTQ+ patients and families. • LGBTQ+ people with cancer and other serious illnesses experience pervasive discriminatory care • Healthcare providers (HCPs) often lack LGBTQ+ health knowledge and feel ill equipped to communicate respectfully and sensitively • Communication training for HCPs must include guidance on respectful and sensitive care for both LGBTQ+ patients and their family caregivers • LGBTQ+ inclusive communication training for oncology HCPs can bolster self-efficacy and communication confidence • Communication training to improve care for LGBTQ+ people fills crucial HCP knowledge, education, and practice gaps

Source: PEC Innovation

DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2026.100457