Abstract
BACKGROUND: The number of practicing lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) cardiologists is unknown despite diversity initiatives focused on understanding workforce demographics. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, sources of mistreatment, and measures of wellness among the LGBTQ+ cardiology community. METHODS: An online survey was sent to the American College of Cardiology Fellow in Training and Early Career Professional Listservs and shared on social media sites. The survey included the Short-Negative Acts Questionnaire and LGBTQ+ -specific harassment questions. Chi-square analysis and Fisher exact tests were performed to compare responses between LGBTQ+ and non-LGBTQ+ respondents. RESULTS: A total of 188 respondents completed the survey (56% Fellow in Training). One-third (33%) identified as LGBTQ+. Gender identity data included: transgender (3%), nonbinary (2%), gender queer (1%), and agender (1%). LGBTQ+ physicians were less likely to agree with the statements 'LGBTQ+ patients were treated fairly' (40% vs 66%, P < 0.001), and 'leadership dealt with people demonstrating poor behavior fairly' (34% vs 51%, P = 0.029) compared to heterosexual peers. LGBTQ+ physicians were more likely to report gender policing and heterosexist harassment compared to heterosexual peers (P = 0.002). The majority of physicians (91%) were satisfied with their decision to become a cardiologist. CONCLUSIONS: This current analysis of LGBTQ+ cardiologists in the workplace identifies opportunities to address mistreatment impacting the LGBTQ+ community. Despite experiencing mistreatment, LGBTQ+ cardiologists report high job satisfaction. Further work is necessary to create a safe space and diverse cohort of physicians required to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ patients at risk for cardiovascular disease.