Introduction to LGBT Health for Health Care Providers

L-Lesbian

G-Gay

B-Bisexual

T-Transgendered

The first thing that a health care provider needs to understand is the vast diversity of the LGTB community.  The acronyms LGBT and sometimes LGBTQ represents a community that is as diverse and unique as any other. 

• Different races
• Ethnicities
• Ages
• Socioeconomic statuses
• Professions

The common denominator is they are members of social and gender minorities that frequently experience stigma and discrimination in all areas of their lives including healthcare.  Although uniquely different, LGBT individuals struggle with finding culturally competent health care services and this impacts both immediate and long-term health outcomes.

It is difficult to estimate the number of LGBT individuals to meet their health care needs as gender identity and sexual orientation questions are not routinely asked on most national or state surveys.

It is the responsibility of the health care system and each individual provider to increase awareness and competency in the delivery of care to these individuals. Improve the health, safety, and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals.