Addressing Healthcare Disparities among Sexual Minorities

Synopsis

Despite the paucity of population-based research on the health status and health needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals, there is evidence of health disparities between sexual minority and heterosexual populations. Although the focus of LGBT health research has been HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infection among men who have sex with men, there is some documentation of health disparities among sexual minority women, with sexual minority women reporting poorer mental and physical health, in addition to less access to and less health care utilization. Using the minority stress framework, these disparities may be due in part to individual prejudice, social stigma and discrimination. To ensure equitable health for all, there is urgent need for targeted culturally sensitive health promotion, cultural sensitivity training for healthcare providers and intervention focused research.