When it comes to LGBT health care, the L is usually ignored. However, lesbians are at higher risk for certain medical conditions, including obesity, breast cancer, heart disease, alcohol dependence, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, lesbians are less likely to have routine screenings, possibly due to this population’s relative lack of trust of health care providers. Our practice warmly and authentically embraces lesbian patients and seeks to earn their trust. We know that many lesbians experience anxiety with women’s health screenings, and we strive to put them at ease. Our office provides a safe space that is judgement-free, where lesbians and bisexual women can be assured that their provider is knowledgeable of lesbian health issues and has a high level of cultural competency and sensitivity regarding this highly stressed and fragile population.
We also offer full-spectrum care for gay and bisexual men as it relates to their sexual health. Our team is very knowledgeable of gay and bisexual men’s health issues. Shaming gay and bisexual male patients based on any aspect of their sexual health deeply conflicts with our approach to care and our values. Our approach empowers gay and bisexual males to identify their own definitions of sexual health to help us provide individualized, dignified care.
We partner with transgender patients to help them receive the highest quality of care from the health care system, including being validated and treated with dignity and respect. Our providers understand that chest exams and cancer screenings inside the genital orifice can evoke severe anxiety in these patients. Much of this concern stems from the patients’ self-consciousness about physical appearance, use of appropriate terminology, and fear of how providers may perceive them. Transgender patients can rest assured knowing that our team is authentic and supportive and that our exams and procedures are tailored to help maximize patient comfort.
