Nineteenth International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations

Abstract

Patients attended and monitored by the DST-Aids program are not aware of or do not validate the network actions aimed at health services on an intersectoral scale. They complain about the embarrassment related to their sexual orientation as a subject of prejudice and discrimination in access and use of these services. This study aimed to identify the difficulties associated with acknowledging diversity in access and permanence of health services by LBGTQ users. This research collected visions, demands and propositions of the patients interviewed in the STD-AIDS Program in the municipality of Sao Joao de Meriti in order to evaluate the sense of respect and belonging related to diversity aspect and to identify the difficulties associated with LGBTQ in access and adhere to health treatment. The data revealed that sexual diversity is not yet acknowledged by the front line professionals, as a result of heteronormative attitudes. The discriminatory attendance indicates the need for investment in permanent professional training on human rights.