Table 2.

Behavioural beliefs

Themes and codes	Number of citations	Number of focus groups
A programme that discriminates MSM	67	7
MSM are still excluded, ghettoized, treated differently from others	30	6
Labels, discriminates and stigmatizes MSM	13	5
Implies that MSM's blood is less pure, not as good as others'	12	5
Reinforces prejudices that MSM take more risks and spread more STBBI than others	7	3
Based on fear, conservative	2	2
Implies that MSM are less truthful and reliable than other donors	2	2
Does more harm than good	1	1
An onerous programme that does not meet MSM's needs	66	7
Relegates MSM to an onerous, restrictive and complicated programme	20	7
Leaves MSM feeling used, offended and frustrated	19	7
Meets Héma‐Québec's needs rather than those of the LGBTQ+ communities	8	4
Less glorious than transfusion	5	3
Bittersweet	5	2
Could be used to silence critics and end discussions with the communities	4	3
Sidesteps MSM's demands regarding whole blood donation	3	3
Too little, too late	2	2
A positive change for MSM	55	7
A step forward, in the right direction	20	7
Represents an inclusion of MSM in blood donations programmes	12	5
A sign of social progress, of openness towards MSM	11	4
Enhances social recognition of MSM's contribution to other people's well‐being	7	5
A way to renew discussions about MSM's access to whole blood donation	3	3
Reduces prejudices and stigmatization towards MSM	2	2
An opportunity to do some good	41	7
Allows MSM to help people in need and save lives	16	5
Allows MSM to do their duty as citizens, be useful to others	10	5
Allows MSM to contribute to blood banks	7	4
Increases plasma reserves and medication production	6	3
Reduces costs for society	2	2