“People who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) are members of every community. They are diverse, come from all walks of life, and include people of all races, ethnicities, all ages, all socioeconomic statuses, from all parts of the country. The perspectives and needs of LGBT people should be routinely considered in public health efforts to improve overall health of every person and eliminate health disparities.
In addition to considering the needs of LGBT people in programs designed to improve the health of entire communities, there is also a need for culturally competent medical care and prevention services that are specific to this population. Social inequality is often associated with poorer health status, and sexual orientation has been associated with multiple health threats. Members of the LGBT community are at increased risk for a number of health threats when compared to their heterosexual peers. Differences in sexual behavior account for some of these disparities, but others are associated with social and structural inequities, such as the stigma and discrimination that LGBT populations experience”
At the Windsor Family Health Team we’ve taken steps to ensure LGBT people in our community receive culturally sensitive health care services. Our team regularly receives training on LGBT health matters and are proud to declare our clinic a LGBT positive space.
If your medical professional at the Windsor FHT is not aware of your gender identity or sexual orientation please feel free to bring up the topic so that we can provide you with the best possible health care.
Links to research, resources and health and social support:
Ontario:
http://www.translifeline.org
http://www.OK2BME.ca
http://www.rainbowhealthontario.ca
http://www.sherbourne.on.ca/lgbt-health/
http://www.dancingtoeaglespiritsociety.org/about.php
https://www.transwellness.ca/
U.S.A.:
http://www.howardbrown.org/
http://www.cdc.gov/lgbthealth/
Windsor:
AIDS/HIV:
Local Youth Advocacy:
Ontario Youth:
Local Counselling:
University of Windsor: