Our practice welcomes everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. We don’t judge individuals; we are here simply to help.

What is LGBTQ?

LGBTQ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer or Questioning. It is an inclusive term that represents the diverse experiences and identities of people who identify as part of the LGBTQ community. Each letter represents a specific group:

• Lesbian: Women who are attracted to other women.
• Gay: Men who are attracted to other men, and can also be used as a general term for homosexual individuals.
• Bisexual: People who are attracted to both their own gender and other genders.
• Transgender: People whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
• Queer or Questioning: Queer is an umbrella term for non-heterosexual and non-cisgender identities, while Questioning refers to people who are exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity.

When should I seek LGBTQ-specific healthcare?

You should seek LGBTQ-specific healthcare if you:

• Need Affirming Care: Seek providers who understand and affirm LGBTQ identities and experiences.
• Require Specialized Services: Access services related to hormone therapy, gender-affirming surgeries, or HIV prevention and treatment.
• Face Discrimination: Seek support for dealing with discrimination or bias in healthcare settings.
• Mental Health Concerns: Address mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma, with providers experienced in LGBTQ-specific challenges.
• Sexual Health: Discuss sexual health openly and receive appropriate screenings and advice.
• Preventive Care: Get preventive care and screenings tailored to LGBTQ individuals, including cancer screenings and vaccinations.

How is LGBTQ healthcare different?

LGBTQ healthcare is tailored to meet the unique needs of LGBTQ individuals. This includes:

• Cultural Competence: Providers are trained to understand and respect the diverse identities and experiences of LGBTQ patients.
• Affirming Care: Creating a welcoming and non-judgmental environment where patients feel safe to discuss their health concerns.
• Specialized Services: Offering hormone therapy, gender-affirming surgeries, PrEP for HIV prevention, and other LGBTQ-specific health services.
• Mental Health Support: Providing therapy and counseling services that address the unique mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals, such as minority stress and discrimination.
• Inclusive Practices: Ensuring that all forms, policies, and procedures are inclusive and respectful of LGBTQ identities.

What are the benefits of LGBTQ-specific healthcare?

LGBTQ-specific healthcare offers several benefits, including:

• Better Health Outcomes: Patients receive care that is tailored to their specific needs, leading to improved health outcomes.
• Increased Comfort: Patients feel more comfortable and understood, which encourages them to seek care and be open about their health concerns.
• Reduced Disparities: Addressing healthcare disparities that affect the LGBTQ community, such as higher rates of mental health issues and barriers to accessing care.
• Comprehensive Care: Providing holistic care that addresses physical, mental, and emotional health.

How can I find LGBTQ-friendly healthcare providers?

To find LGBTQ-friendly healthcare providers, you can:

• Seek Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from friends, LGBTQ community centers, or advocacy organizations.
• Online Directories: Use online directories and databases that list LGBTQ-friendly providers.
• Research Providers: Look for providers who advertise their experience with LGBTQ patients and check their reviews.
• Ask Questions: When scheduling an appointment, ask about the provider’s experience with LGBTQ healthcare and their approach to affirming care.

Our practice is committed to providing comprehensive and affirming healthcare to the LGBTQ community. Call to schedule an appointment or book an appointment online today. We are here to help, without judgment, and welcome everyone.