The Suffolk County Department of Health Services joins its Office of Minority Health in promoting LGBTQ Health Awareness Week and encourages everyone to speak openly about LGBTQ health, providing an umbrella under which to discuss and raise awareness of mental health, transgender health, and ending stigma through accessible, affirming, and inclusive healthcare services, so that everyone can fully live their truth.
“The goal is to improve the health, safety, and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning or queer individuals,” said Dr. Pigott, Suffolk County’s Health Commissioner.
Research suggests that LGBTQ individuals face health disparities linked to societal stigma, discrimination, and denial of their civil and human rights. Discrimination against LGBT persons has been associated with high rates of psychiatric disorders, substance abuse, and suicide. Experiences of violence and victimization are frequent for LGBT individuals, and have long-lasting effects on the individual and the community. Personal, family, and social acceptance of sexual orientation and gender identity affects the mental health and personal safety of LGBT individuals.
“We know the underserved and marginalized communities often face barriers to cultural inclusive and responsive care and we stand as allies with all community members to ensure they have access to services and programs that meet them where they are, in a fashion that is supportive and respectful to the whole person,” said Adesuwa Watson, Suffolk County’s Director of Minority Heath.
Suffolk County’s Office of Minority Health was established in 2005 to address existing health disparities and improve the health of minorities by raising awareness of health issues through educational programs and events, improving access to quality primary care services and health insurance, and ensuring that Suffolk County residents receive health care in a culturally sensitive and appropriate manner.
The Office of Minority Health has compiled the following resources for affirming care and programming for the LGBTQ community in Suffolk County.
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