15 ways to reduce barriers for the LGBT community

A panel of experts recently presented "Resources for Culturally Appropriate Integrated Services for LGBT Individuals" as part of the SAMHSA HRSA Integrated Center for Health Solutions. Here are 15 quick tips they shared.

1.       Understand the barriers to care for the LGBT community affect an estimated 9 million people, which is equivalent to the population of the state of New Jersey

2.       Realize that LGBT adults are less likely to have insurance coverage than heterosexual adults (77% of LGB and 57% of transgender, compared to 82% of heterosexual adults)

3.       Understand that transgender adults are more likely to experience suicide ideation (50% vs. 2%)

4.       Address the LGBT community’s higher prevalence of tobacco use (33% vs. 20% of the U.S. population overall)

5.       Create an integrated care model

6.       Adopt a nondiscrimination policy and post it

7.       Do not make assumptions based on appearance

8.       Develop patients’ right to identify as LGBT

9.       Incorporate a broad definition of “family” consistent with the law

10.   Monitor your organization’s efforts to provide culturally competent care

11.   Identify an individual leader who will be accountable for nondiscrimination

12.   Support your champions who have expertise

13.   Design gender-neutral or single-stall restrooms

14.   Commemorate LGBT events such as Pride Month

15.   Seek out resources

More Online at SAMHSA:

https://www.integration.samhsa.gov/about-us/webinars