As we near the end of Pride Month, it’s important to take a moment to honor the impact the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community has had on our history and the progress of civil rights.
We recognize those who stood up, protested and risked their lives so we could be closer today to a society where people can be exactly who they are without fear of persecution. There’s still work to be done, but we are in a better place because of the pioneers of the LGBTQ movement and all that followed the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan.
While there’s progress to be gained within our culture in general, we also need to take into consideration how we progress as medical professionals to better care for our LGBTQ patients.
When visiting your primary care physician, it’s common to fill out a questionnaire that asks about your health, habits and any changes you’ve noticed, but not all paperwork contains a question that’s just as important to your care: What is your sexual orientation?
It is a personal matter, and can be uncomfortable to answer, but this bit of information can be critical to your health. Your physician – and any health care professional, for that matter – will keep your information private, but knowing your sexual orientation will help them advise on your preventive care.
Each person has unique health needs, and being open with your doctor can ensure those needs are met.
Research shows that members of the LGBTQ community can be at increased risk for certain health concerns.
• Young LGBTQ individuals are two to three times more likely to attempt suicide. Mental health is a key factor in overall health and well-being.
• Gay men are at higher risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV. Your doctor can help you get tested for STDs and discuss risks.
• Lesbians are less likely to get preventive cancer screenings, such as mammograms and Pap tests. Your doctor will recommend when and how often you should get cancer screenings and refer you to a specialist.
• Lesbian and bisexual women are somewhat more likely to become overweight or obese. Your doctor can discuss diet, exercise and other factors that can contribute to weight.
• Transgender individuals are at higher risk for STDs, mental health issues and suicide, and they’re more likely to become victims of physical or verbal abuse. Your primary care physician can address these issues and refer you to other professionals who can help. Once your doctor is aware of your sexual orientation, they can begin to provide more personalized care.
You can be open about your life and your choices, and you and your doctor can work together to create a plan for staying healthy. Your LGBTQ-friendly provider should ask for your gender identity, preferred pronouns and preferred name.
If you see a primary care physician and have yet to share your sexual orientation, broach the topic in any way that makes you feel comfortable. You can approach the topic by inquiring about STD testing, or you can simply make your provider aware you’d like to discuss something personal.
If you don’t currently have a primary care provider, or you’d like to find an LGBTQ-friendly doctor, you can turn to LGBTQ centers or friends for referrals who note they are LGBTQ-friendly. Also, if you do not feel supported by your provider, it may be time to find a new doctor.
When you call to make an appointment, ask if the doctor treats LGBTQ patients.
If you’re still nervous about the appointment, you can bring a friend for support.
Our staff can connect patients and family members with LGBTQ-knowledgeable and -friendly providers.
For additional information or assistance with any services, call 570-214-5162 or email diversity@geisinger.edu.