LGBTQIA+ group in a primary health care unit in the north area of Rio de Janeiro

an experience report

Abstract

Problem: The LGBTQIA+ population, despite the existence of the 2011 National LGBT Comprehensive Health Policy, still has worse mental health rates and experiences prejudice and discrimination in primary health care units. PHC, through its proximity to the territory, has tools for a community approach, such as health groups, spaces for exchanging knowledge, promoting resilience and community identification. Method: Qualitative, descriptive study, according to the SQUIRE guidelines, as an experience report of a health group focused on the LGBTQIA+ population in a health unit in the North Zone of the city of Rio de Janeiro. Data collection on Google Scholar using the terms: Community Health Services, Sexual and Gender Minorities, and Health Services Accessibility, in addition to manual search in consolidated literature on the subject. Results: The LGBTQIA+ Group was created in 2021, based on a demand from a trans male user. It had multidisciplinary coordination and was maintained despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Gender reassignment procedures, experiences of prejudice and violence and history of mental health disorders were frequently addressed topics in the meetings. Impacts on the unit’s work process can be highlighted with greater discussion of themes related to sexual and gender diversity. Conclusions: Maintaining groups in the current scenario of PHC remains a challenge, especially those aimed at marginalized populations, made even more vulnerable by the COVID-19 pandemic. The qualification of health professionals in relation to issues of gender diversity and sexual orientation with continuing education activities and the struggle for the existence and permanence of the LGBTQIA+ population in health services are urgent subjects for the consolidation of the SUS.