Improving Inclusive Communication: Pilot Results from a Simulation-Based Learning Opportunity to Practice Taking a Sexual Health History

Authors

Rachel Kupferman, Tufts University School of MedicineFollow
Beth Gray, Maine Medical CenterFollow
Bethany Rocheleau, Maine Medical CenterFollow
Christine Mallar, Maine Medical CenterFollow
Karissa Hannifan, Maine Medical CenterFollow
Victoria Hayes, Maine Medical CenterFollow
Leah Mallory, Maine Medical CenterFollow
Brandy Brown, Maine Medical CenterFollow

Submission Type

Innovation Highlight

Abstract

Introduction: Sexual and gender minority (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning; LGBTQ+) patients experience health care inequities. Simulation using standardized patients (SPs) is an effective tool for communication-based training. To promote equitable practice, we created an experiential learning opportunity for residents to practice inclusive communication and improve their comfort in caring for LGBTQ+ patients while maintaining the psychological safety of SPs.

Methods: Our interdisciplinary team explored relevant simulation curricula, conducted a focus group with LGBTQ+ SPs, created a didactic presentation, and designed and implemented a simulated case. Family medicine residents participated in the training and completed pre- and post-training surveys rating their confidence in sexual health communication and working with sexual and gender minority patients. We compared Likert scale ratings in pre- and post-training surveys using a Wilcoxon signed-rank test. SPs completed post-simulation surveys rating their psychological safety.

Results: Residents completed pre-training (n = 13) and post-training (n = 12) surveys. Confidence improved in every category, reaching significance for confidence in obtaining a sexual health history from LGBTQ+ patients. Four SPs completed post-simulation surveys. All SPs reported that the event had educational value and was a positive experience.

Discussion: This innovative simulation training with an equity focus improved learner confidence and maintained the psychological safety of SPs. We speculate that curricular design elements of interdisciplinary collaboration and co-creation with SPs with lived experience may have contributed to the success.

Conclusions: Through interdisciplinary collaboration and experiential learning, we created a valuable learning opportunity that allowed residents to improve their confidence in taking inclusive sexual health histories of LGBTQ+ patients.

Recommended Citation

Kupferman, Rachel; Gray, Beth; Rocheleau, Bethany; Mallar, Christine; Hannifan, Karissa; Hayes, Victoria; Mallory, Leah; and Brown, Brandy (2023) "Improving Inclusive Communication: Pilot Results from a Simulation-Based Learning Opportunity to Practice Taking a Sexual Health History," Journal of Maine Medical Center: Vol. 5 : Iss. 2 , Article 9.
Available at: https://doi.org/10.46804/2641-2225.1157