LGBTQ population health policy advocacy.

Abstract

Introduction: Members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) community have specific health-care needs that are often overlooked by health-care providers due to education gaps and discrimination. Health-care inequality for this population has been researched and found to negatively contribute to poorer health outcomes for LGBTQ individuals.

Background: There exists a critical need for LGBTQ health education at the undergraduate level for future health-care providers. Additionally, policy reform that establishes an LGBTQ-inclusive code of conduct and educates health-care workers on LGBTQ-specific health needs aims to reshape organizational culture.

Recommendations: Curriculum-based education on LGBTQ health for students in health-care professions opens up conversations about the unique needs of this population and paves the way for improved provision of care and better relationships between providers and patients. Education and inclusive policy reform within organizations are critical for improving health outcomes for LGBTQ individuals.

Conclusion: Increasing health-care providers' knowledge of this population's specific health needs and learning how to deliver culturally appropriate and sensitive care will lead to improved health outcomes for members of the LGBTQ community.