Burnout and Perception of Medical School Learning Environments Among Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Medical Students

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Abstract
Diversifying the health care workforce to be more inclusive of physicians who are minoritized on the basis of their sexual orientation (ie, sexual minority [SM] individuals) is an important strategy for addressing health disparities related to sexual orientation.1-3 Approximately 8% of the US population identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.4 Discrimination against SM persons has been associated with high rates of psychiatric disorders, substance use disorders, and experiences of violence and victimization.5-8 Multiple studies have demonstrated the importance of increasing the diversity of the health care workforce in improving health disparities, patient satisfaction, and financial performance.9-13 To that end, several national medical organizations have identified increasing SM representation and development as priorities for addressing health disparities among SM populations.2,3 However, a culture of heterosexism and discrimination creates nonwelcoming learning environments, potentially contributing to symptoms of burnout.14-16 Increased rates of burnout further create a barrier to retention and recruitment of SM health care workers.14,17,18

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