As we celebrate Pride Month, it is important to recognize the unique health needs of the LGBTQIA+ community and the challenges they face when seeking care. Within the Hackensack Meridian Health network, we are committed to providing high-quality, culturally competent care to all patients, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+.
Members of the LGBTQIA+ community often face discrimination and stigma when seeking medical care. In fact, 1 in 8 LGBTQIA+ people live in a state where health care providers can legally refuse to treat them based on religious grounds, according to the Movement Advancement Project, an LGBTQIA+ think tank. This discrimination can lead to a reluctance or delay in seeking care, and a lack of trust in health care providers. As a result, LGBTQIA+ individuals are more likely to experience health disparities and negative health outcomes than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts.
At Hackensack Meridian Health, we recognize the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all patients. We have implemented policies and training programs to ensure that our staff provides culturally competent care to all patients, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In fact, 11 Hackensack Meridian Health hospitals have been named by the Human Rights Campaign as a “LGBTQIA+ Healthcare Equality Leader” — with a perfect score of 100! We have also designed an extensive training program for physicians on appropriate language and terminology, as well as on the unique health needs and health disparities faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals.
We also offer a range of services specifically tailored to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. These services include:
- Behavioral health services: We offer behavioral health services specifically tailored to the needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals, including counseling and support groups. We recognize that members of the LGBTQIA+ community are more likely to experience mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse, and we are committed to providing the support they need.
- HIV/AIDS services: We offer comprehensive HIV/AIDS services, including testing, treatment and support services. We recognize that members of the LGBTQIA+ community are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS and are committed to providing the best possible care to those living with this disease.
- Community outreach: We are committed to engaging with the LGBTQIA+ community and to building trust and understanding between health care providers and patients. We participate in community events and sponsor LGBTQIA+ organizations to promote awareness of LGBTQIA+ health issues and to provide education and support to the community.
Our commitment to providing high-quality, culturally competent care to the LGBTQIA+ community is reflected in our policies, programs and services. We recognize that members of the LGBTQIA+ community face unique health needs and challenges, and we are committed to providing the best possible care to all patients, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
As we celebrate Pride Month, we must also recognize the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Discrimination, violence and inequality continue to be major issues for LGBTQIA+ individuals, both in the U.S. and around the world. We must continue to advocate for laws and policies that protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals and promote equality and acceptance.
As president and chief hospital executive at Bayshore Medical Center and as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am proud to work at Hackensack Meridian Health, which is committed to providing compassionate, respectful care to all patients and to working toward a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Caitlin Miller is the president and chief hospital executive at Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel.
