LGBTQ+ Health and Support

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MissionTrans Woman Waiting Room

As part of Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services’ mission, it is our goal to promote the health, safety, and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning plus (LGBTQ+) individuals. We know that our LGBTQ+ community is a resilient, diverse group of people with unique needs that must be addressed through an accessible network of resources and unique assets that must be fostered and supported.

Vision

Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services has a vision for a vibrant community where everyone is treated equally, no matter their gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion, ability, etc. We envision an LGBTQ+ community free from discrimination and bias in health and social interactions, where LGBTQ+ individuals:

  • Know their health status, including potential health risks,
  • Know what programs and services are available to support their health, safety, and well-being,
  • Interface with LGBTQ+ competent public service professionals, and,
  • Experience optimal quality of life within inclusive and accepting families and communities.

I’m looking for:

Click below for local resources and information pertaining to a number of healthcare priorities for LGBTQ+ people.

Trans Masc Doc

Drug Alcohol SupportHIV CareHousing SupportMH SupportSpiritual and Social SupportTransgender Care

Health Disparities

It is recognized that fear of discrimination leads many LGBTQ+ people to avoid addressing their health and social needs. When engaged in care and public services, studies indicate that LGBTQ+ people are not consistently treated with respect, understanding, compassion, and empathy. 

According to Healthy People 2020, we as public service professionals and community members must pay specific attention to a number of LGBTQ+ health disparities, including:

  • LGBT youth are 2 to 3 times more likely to attempt suicideTransfem exec meeting with a non-binary employee
  • Transgender individuals have a high prevalence of HIV/STDs, victimization, mental health issues, and suicide and are less likely to have health insurance than heterosexual or LGB individuals
  • LGBT older adults face additional barriers to health because of isolation and a lack of social services and culturally competent providers
  • LGBT populations have the highest rates of tobacco, alcohol, and other drug use

Call to Action

We strive to be an equitable, knowledgeable, sensitive, and welcoming resource. We ask our community members and healthcare partners to help us to end these disparities and safeguard comprehensive and inclusive services for all by advocating for LGBTQ+ people and fighting against LGBTQ+ discrimination and bias.

LGBTQ+ Community Engagement Project Report
Office of Minority Health Resource Center

LGBT HealthLink Wellness Roundup

  1. “all of Us” Changes the game on LGBTQ Research

    As you may have seen earlier this month, CenterLink’s long-time LGBTQ Wellness Roundup podcast has been remade from the ground up at the HealthLink PrideCast! This new format will allow us to share in-depth stories on LGBTQ community health,...

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  2. Introducing Our New Podcast!

    Our HealthLink PrideCast will feature in-depth, original content focused on LGBTQ community health - including news for and by our 300+ LGBTQ centers. Our first episode features an interview with Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, who serves as Deputy...

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  3. Anti-trans Discourse Harming Youth – #LGBTWellness Roundup

    Each week LGBT HealthLink, a Program of CenterLink, brings you a round-up of some of the biggest LGBTQ wellness stories from the past week. You can LISTEN to our Weekly Wellness Roundup podcast! Subscribe...

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  1. For Providers
  2. For Families

HealthCare Systems

Trans Health Providers

Mental and Behavioral Health Providers