Professionalism is key in providing services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex South Africans

Abstract

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people, also called sexual and gender minorities, face health disparities owing to their sexual orientation and gender identity. They also have specific health needs that most healthcare providers are oblivious to. In South Africa, sexual and gender minority people experience numerous barriers to accessing healthcare, many of which are rooted in healthcare providers' lack of knowledge and awareness, as well as discriminatory attitudes. Health are providers need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide quality care to sexual and gender minority patients, and need to provide non-judgemental and non-discriminatory care in line with their professional and ethical obligations.