Join Us at the 36th Annual AIDS Walk Orange County

AIDS Walk Orange County fundraising

On Saturday, October 22, 2022 at 9 a.m., the annual AIDS Walk Orange County returns for its 36th year. This event offers the chance to come together, support people living with HIV/AIDS – and remember those we lost to the virus. At Radiant Health Centers, we invite the Orange County community to join us and walk in support of unity, family, love and equality for all.

Everything You Need to Know About AIDS Walk Orange County 2022

AIDS Walk Orange County starts at Mile Square Park in Fountain Valley. The action-packed event includes a “fun walk,” live entertainment, games, food trucks, plus an arts and crafts vendor fair. Some events to look forward to are the cutest dog contest, the most creative AIDS Walk T-shirt – and our top fundraiser and team announcement.

Participants may register as an individual, create a team or join a team, with the registration fee set at $25. There is no fundraising minimum to take part. And remember, every dollar counts, and we encourage people to work together to reach their fundraising goals.

If you cannot walk with us this year, you can still participate in the cause and help us by donating. Any amount you donate is appreciated!

Why AIDS Walk Orange County 2022 Matters

AIDS Walk Orange County has enabled Radiant Health Centers to support the LGBTQ+ community with health services, mental health counseling and other social services. With a history dating back to 1986, the walk brings together friends and families in solidarity with people living with HIV, and with those who have lost their lives.

Many people within the LGBTQ+ community face health disparities and struggle to get the healthcare they need. At Radiant Health Centers we provide the highest level of medical care and support, thanks in part to the generosity of our donors and sponsors. A special mention to the sponsors of this year’s event – ADP, Gilead, Biktarvy, Descovy, Avita, Hyundai, Room & Board and Shopoff Realty Investments.

Building on the Success of Last Year’s Walk

Last year’s event was a big success, with hundreds of participants raising a total of more than $120,000. This year we hope to do even better with the help of individuals and organizations in the community.

Funds raised have allowed us to invest in critical support services, including HIV testing, STI testing, medical services and youth programs. These programs improve health outcomes for people with HIV/AIDS, and deliver prevention, treatment and care to tackle the ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic. By walking with us and donating to AIDS Walk Orange County 2022 this October, you can play an essential role in the fight to end HIV.

Attend the AIDS Walk Orange County and Donate to the Cause

Donating to AIDS Walk Orange County allows us to support thousands of LGBTQ+ people with health and social services. Please visit the fundraising page to register for the walk and donate to the cause. For any general inquiries, you can call us at (949) 809-5700.

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Stay Informed About Monkeypox in Orange County

Monkeypox prevention in Orange County

IMPORTANT UPDATE: GET FREE MONKEYPOX VACCINES

Free Monkeypox vaccines are now available at Radiant Health Centers. Vaccines are available to anyone in Orange County by appointment only. To book an appointment call (949) 809-5700.

Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus and anyone can get monkeypox, get vaccinated today!

In early August, the U.S. government declared monkeypox a public health emergency amid growing case rates. As monkeypox cases continue to rise, Radiant Health Centers is committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community with up-to-date information and reliable education. Together with our friends in the Orange County community, we’re here to share information about monkeypox, keeping you informed and helping you stay safe.

What You Need to Know About Monkeypox

Monkeypox is a rare infection caused by the monkeypox virus (part of the same family of viruses as smallpox). The disease has been discovered in more than 90 countries worldwide and is causing great concern. The latest data indicates 83 confirmed and probable cases in Orange County, with the Orange County Health Care Agency continuing to investigate and conduct contact tracing.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Monkeypox

Monkeypox symptoms usually begin around 5–21 days after infection. Initial symptoms could be a fever, low energy, an aching body, swollen lymph nodes and headaches. Over the next few days, patients develop a rash that turns into blisters that scab over and eventually heal. The rash may develop on the face, hands, feet, chest, genitals and anus, and usually clears up after a few weeks.

If you recognize these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for help. The Orange County Health Care Agency is vaccinating those who meet the CDC guidelines, and who are 18 years or older. For an appointment, call (800) 564-8448 or visit www.othena.com. Learn more at www.ochealthinfo.com/monkeypox.

Preventive Steps to Fight Monkeypox Transmission

Prevention will play a key role in curbing the spread of monkeypox in Orange County. Here are the steps we can all take:

  • Wash your hands regularly.
  • Isolate yourself if you have monkeypox symptoms.
  • Avoid close contact with people who have symptoms.
  • Pay attention to sores or rashes on your body.
  • Wear protective clothing when caring for those with monkeypox.

Monkeypox and the LGBTQ+ Community

Data suggests that men who have sex with men are currently the group with the highest infection rates. However, while close skin contact is a method of transmission, monkeypox is not regarded as a sexually transmitted disease.

Join Us to End the Stigma About Monkeypox

Sadly, misinformation about the disease is stopping some people from accessing medical care. In reality, anyone can get monkeypox, from sharing towels to caring for someone with the disease. By spreading awareness, we can help stop the stigma and ensure individuals get the appropriate medical care when needed.

Radiant Health Centers is the leading LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Irvine. Our expert team provides HIV testing and treatment, STD testing, family planning, counseling and telehealth services for people in Orange County. For general inquiries, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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With STD Rates Rising Free STD Testing in Orange County Is Essential

STI/STD testing services in Orange County

Reports of sharp increases in California’s STD rates have been commonplace in recent years. As the leading LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Orange County, Radiant Health Centers has been committed to tackling this issue by offering STD testing services at our Irvine medical clinic. LGBTQ+ people can now get tested in a friendly environment where safety, privacy and sexual health are prioritized.

Free STD Testing Service Available for LGBTQ+ People

Radiant Health Centers provides same-day STD testing free of charge to the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. Patients without insurance can access free STD, HIV and hepatitis C testing, while those with insurance will need to share their information with the clinic.

At Radiant Health Centers, while STD testing is not a new service, today it’s more important than ever. It was less than 12 months ago that Governor Newsom signed a bill into law that promised greater STI testing and treatment. The push to improve sexual health outcomes came about after California’s STD rates were said to have reached “crisis levels.”

Syphilis in particular was singled out, with rates in California rising 74% between 2015 and 2019. But within the LGBTQ+ community, all STDs and HIV are a concern due to disproportionately high rates. The CDC identified young gay and bisexual males as being at risk, with social stigma and mental health issues playing a role in risky sexual behavior and a reluctance to seek medical assistance.

Types of STDs Impacting LGTBQ+ People in Orange County

A free STD test at Radiant Health Centers will screen for a range of infections – you can view our STD types infographic for a closer look. And this screening is crucial, as STD rates have been increasing for various STD types. For example, between 2009 and 2019 the rate of gonorrhea in Orange County went from 23.9 cases per 100,000 population to 126.4 per 100,000 population.

Similarly, chlamydia rates per 100,000 population rose from 251 to 442.7 during the same period. For the prevention of ongoing health issues, it’s important that STD testing and treatment combat these stark increases – and these goals also apply to HIV and hepatitis C. Note that while hepatitis C is not actually an STD, it’s often assumed to be one as screening for hep-C is included during STI/STD testing.

Where Can I Get Free STD Testing?

Testing is conducted at our Irvine medical clinic with full confidentiality. Tests are performed in person, while follow-up appointments or treatment could possibly be accomplished through our LGBTQ+ telehealth services.

Access Free STD Treatment and Testing in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides free STD, HIV and hepatitis testing services at our medical clinic in Irvine. Our expert team can also assist patients with counseling, family planning and other key medical services. For medical inquiries or STD testing, please call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.

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Orange County LGBTQ+ Youth Facing Mental Health Disparities

Irvine mental health issues facing LGBTQ+ youth

LGBTQ+ youth in Orange County are disproportionately affected by mental health challenges. As Radiant Health Centers prepares to launch their new LGBTQ+ Youth & Mentorship program, it’s a good time to reflect on the challenges many young people in the community face each day.

Sadly, social stigma, discrimination and judgment about identities are frequent sources of stress during the pivotal adolescent years. And now more than ever, it’s important to raise awareness of these issues and deliver comprehensive LGBTQ+ youth services.

Showing Support for LGBTQ+ Youth Mental Health in Orange County

As the largest LGBTQ+ healthcare provider in Orange County, we are constantly reminded of the struggles facing young people. Many LGBTQ+ youth lack a support system to guide them towards adulthood. Consequently, individuals are left to navigate home, school, healthcare and workplace environments that are often less than accommodating of their needs.

At Radiant Health Centers, we are committed to providing physical, mental and social services to the most vulnerable LGBTQ+ youth. With this commitment in mind during our annual celebration of Pride Month, we are asking for donations to support our LGBTQ+ Youth & Mentorship program. The first $25,000 raised by July 31st will be matched dollar-for-dollar thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor.

How Do Mental Health Issues Impact LGBTQ+ Youth?

Stress, anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia and other mental health disorders impact Orange County LGBTQ+ youth. Unfortunately, these issues often have a cumulative effect that leads to other health issues. Statistics show that our LGBTQ+ youth have disproportionately high rates of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, and are also more likely to attempt suicide.

According to a survey by The Trevor Project, 42% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered suicide during the last year. In addition, 94% of respondents also reported that recent politics had negatively impacted their mental health. By contrast, they reported that having access to spaces that affirmed their sexual orientation led to lower rates of attempted suicide.

Expanding Mental Health Programs for Orange County’s LGBTQ+ Youth

Access to uplifting spaces is one of the initiatives introduced with the latest youth programs that are coming to Radiant Health Centers. A drop-in center will provide a place for LGBTQ+ transitional-aged youth (ages 13 to 25), one that is designed specifically to address their needs. Similarly, LGBTQ+ counseling groups, mentorship and sexual health education will provide solid foundations for individuals as they develop into adulthood. Thankfully, as awareness is raised on the mental health struggles of LGBTQ+ youth, more help and guidance can reduce inequalities and create a better future for young people in Orange County.

Supporting the LGBTQ+ Youth in Orange County

At Radiant Health Centers we provide counseling, support and medical services to the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. If you need help with HIV testing and treatment, STI testing, mental health counseling and other programs, reach out to our Irvine clinic. For assistance, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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Celebrating Inclusivity and LGBTQ+ Rights During Pride Month

Pride Month events in Irvine and Orange County

June is Pride Month and Radiant Health Centers is proud to once again support the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. During this annual event, LGBTQ+ people around the globe come together to uplift marginalized voices and raise awareness of issues affecting the community. At Radiant Health Centers we will join in the celebration of the incredible progress made by so many, and consider what can be done to continue to promote inclusivity.

Why Pride Month Matters for LGBTQ+ People in Orange County

Pride Month is an opportunity for individuals, communities and organizations to consider how to promote inclusivity, equity and diversity. From workplaces and schools to health services and community groups, LGBTQ+ individuals routinely face barriers to equality. With awareness at its highest during Pride Month, these groups and organizations are encouraged to reflect on how to foster a better environment for LGBTQ+ people.

Addressing the Ongoing Struggles for Equality

While much progress has been made over recent decades, frequent examples of discrimination throughout society still occur. Pride Month is a chance to celebrate the many achievements, along with the need to be aware of the continued need for improvements.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, we saw the impact of discrimination and inequality on the mental well-being of many in the LGBTQ+ community. Statistics indicate that over half of all LGBTQ+ women have experienced sexual harasment during their careers. Similarly, LGBTQ+ women are the most likely group to report microaggressions at work.

While change is an ongoing process, Pride Month provides individuals and organizations with the chance for open discussion, self-education and allyship. Fortunately, when the world is focused on the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month, change is more likely to occur.

How Groups Can Promote Inclusivity in Orange County

  • Develop policies detailing how your organization promotes inclusivity.
  • Create an open forum for LGBTQ+ people to discuss their needs.
  • Offer diversity training to foster better relations.
  • Ensure LGBTQ+ people with disabilities are not prevented from participation.

What Events Are Taking Place During Pride Month?

Pride Month 2022 features a wide variety of events. At Radiant Health Centers, we have our Pride Kick Off Happy Hour on Thursday, June 23rd. Join us for a chance to socialize and prepare yourself for the OC Pride Parade and Festival on Saturday, June 25th. With the many events taking place during June, OC Pride is the best place to stay up-to-date with the busy calendar.

Access LGBTQ+ Medical Care in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides STD testing, HIV treatment, counseling, social services and more for the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. We provide confidential visits at our Irvine clinic or through our telehealth facilities. To contact us, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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Radiant Health Centers Hit Fundraising Goal at Annual Gala

Orange County Club Radiant Annual Gala

Friday, May 13, 2022, saw the long-awaited return of the Radiant Health Centers’ Club Radiant Gala. With attendees coming together to support the Orange County LGBTQ+ community, the event once again highlighted the generosity of our sponsors, donors and attendees alike. Those who were lucky enough to secure a ticket enjoyed live music, awards – and a celebration that went long into the night.

Fundraising Goal Reached at Radiant Health Centers’ 36th Annual Gala

The Annual Gala has become a highlight on the calendar, and this year generated even more excitement after the 2021 COVID-enforced virtual event. This enthusiasm was put into sharp focus when the fundraising goal of $300,000 was surpassed. To support LGBTQ+ healthcare equity and HIV care in Orange County, the money raised will enable Radiant Health Centers to deliver services for some of the most vulnerable people across Orange County.

As always, it is the support and generosity of our sponsors that makes this all possible. Our Silver sponsor this year was Gilead, and our Bronze sponsors were Alaska Airlines, Avita, Disneyland Resort, Janssen, Pacific Life, Pacific Western Bank & Union Bank.

Everyone at Radiant Health Centers would like to thank these organizations for their support. All of our sponsors, donors and supporters will ensure that thousands of our clients will get ongoing access to the highest quality health services in Orange County.

Recognizing Activism and Advocacy in the LGBTQ+ Community

Another high point was the presentation of the Radiant Compassion Award. This year saw an activist and journalist honored at the Annual Gala for their work in the LGBTQ+ community.

Alison Arngrim is best known for her work as a best-selling author and actor, including a role in television’s “Little House On The Prairie.” Alison has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ causes for many years, working hotlines, fundraising and providing consistent support.

Sharing the award was two-time Emmy Award winner, Tony Morrison. Tony revealed his journey living with HIV in an affecting essay, and continues to inspire many others by openly sharing his experiences.

Alison Arngrim and Tony Morrison 2022 Radiant Health Centers Annual LGBTQ+ Gala

Back to the ’70s at Club Radiant

The Club Radiant theme offered attendees the chance to showcase their best 70’s outfits – and they certainly did not disappoint. Guests were also treated to a live performance from Thelma Houston, GRAMMY Award winning Motown, pop and disco legend. The money raised will play a crucial role for countless people across Orange County throughout the year. A big thank you to everyone who attended and made the event such a memorable occasion. If you missed out on the gala but would like to contribute, you can still donate to the LGBTQ+ community through Radiant Health Centers.

Thelma Houston Performing at Radiant Health Centers 2022 LGBTQ+ Gala

Supporting the LGBTQ+ Community in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers is committed to providing support to those living with HIV in Orange County. In addition, we are available for STD testing, social services, counseling and other services at our Irvine medical clinic and via telehealth. For more information, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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Fight the Stigma During Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental health awareness in Orange County

May 2022 is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Radiant Health Centers is throwing our support behind this important movement. As a provider of LGBTQ+ counseling and mental health services in Orange County, we understand the challenges faced by the community. By working together to raise awareness and support those most in need, we can improve mental health outcomes for the future.

Mental Health Awareness Month in Orange County

Through our relationships with the Orange County LGBTQ+ community, the Radiant Health Centers team is acutely aware of the disproportionate impact of mental health issues. Studies repeatedly point to an increased risk of mental stress, and it can often lead to ongoing concerns such as substance abuse.

One survey found that LGBTQ+ adults were more than twice as likely to report mental health issues than heterosexual individuals in the same age group. Another study discovered that transgender people reported higher cases of depressive symptoms and suicide attempts. With such a disparity, access to mental health counseling for the LGBTQ+ community takes on an increasingly important role.

Why Is Mental Health Such an Issue in the LGBTQ+ Community?

During Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s important to look closely at the reasons for raised levels of mental health conditions affecting LGBTQ+ people. Some of these reasons include the following.

  • Discrimination at work or in healthcare – Experiences of discrimination can lead to unemployment and a reluctance to seek medical care.
  • Rejection from friends and family – As a response to a person’s sexual identity, relationships with friends and family can sometimes deteriorate.
  • Traumatic experiences – Many within the community face harassment, bullying, verbal abuse and physical intimidation.
  • Alcohol and drug abuse – Substance abuse for LGBTQ+ adults is higher than for the wider population, with mental health issues a contributing factor.
  • Lack of stable accommodation – Homelessness caused by discrimination, substance abuse or limited employment opportunities can reduce the opportunities to obtain a stable living environment.

Responding to the Mental Health Challenge

Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to shine a light on this issue across social media, blogs and other platforms. By openly discussing the mental health issues faced by many within the LGBTQ+ community, it is possible to reduce the stigma and encourage anyone in need to use the various social services available at clinics such as Radiant Health Centers.

Mental health is not a problem that exists in isolation. From a reluctance to seek STD or HIV testing due to fears of discrimination, to an increased possibility of turning to drug use, mental health is part of a wider problem. However, it’s only by spreading awareness that so many people can access the counseling that will lead to a brighter and more fulfilling life.

Mental Health Services for the Orange County LGBTQ+ Community

Radiant Health Centers provides mental health services and counseling from our Irvine medical clinic. Patients can access in-person or telehealth counseling services with our experienced and understanding team. For assistance, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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Get Tested & Know Your Status This Hepatitis Testing Day

Hepatitis Testing Day in Orange County

May 19, 2022 is Hepatitis Testing Day, and Irvine’s leading LGBTQ+ medical clinic, Radiant Health Centers, is joining the effort to raise awareness. After many years of providing hepatitis testing services to the Orange County community, Radiant Health Centers has seen the importance of early diagnosis of viral hepatitis. But with millions of Americans unknowingly living with hepatitis, getting tested is a key factor in ending this silent epidemic.

Raising Awareness for Hepatitis Testing Day

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, hepatitis C leads to more deaths across the country than any other reportable infectious disease. Hepatitis B is also a major cause of liver disease and liver cancer. However, safe and effective treatments are readily available – treatments that can potentially prevent long-term sickness or cure the disease. The key to ensuring healthy outcomes is through testing with providers such as Radiant Health Centers.

Is Hepatitis an STD?

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that’s usually caused by a viral infection. As hepatitis testing is often included with STD tests, it’s frequently assumed to be an STD. But in reality, hepatitis A, B and C are transmitted in many different ways that do not require sexual contact.

A bout of hepatitis A typically lasts for a couple of months, and is frequently caused by food and drink contaminated with fecal matter.

Hepatitis B is usually spread through blood and other bodily fluids. While this can include sexual contact, it is also commonly spread from a mother to child at birth, or by sharing needles.

Hepatitis C is caused when a person comes into contact with contaminated blood. Acquiring hepatitis c also often involves needle sharing or other methods of blood exposure.

Conversely, the various types of STDs are almost always caused by sexual contact, with viruses, bacteria or parasites passing from one individual to another.

Take Action on Hepatitis Testing Day

With an estimated 2.4 million Americans living with hepatitis C, raising awareness is a crucial way to save lives and protect the health of so many people. Hepatitis C is most dangerous when it goes undiagnosed. Hepatitis is a treatable disease – and in some cases it is also curable. With medical clinics like Radiant Health Centers offering accessible testing services, those most at risk can benefit from awareness and understanding their options.

This Hepatitis Testing Day, why not spread the message that knowing the risks and getting tested for viral hepatitis is the easiest way to end this national epidemic. By visiting our LGBTQ+ Orange County medical clinic for testing, you can play your part in the campaign to end viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.

Access HIV, STD and Hepatitis C Testing in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides HIV, STD and hepatitis C testing and treatment for the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. If you need help with family planning, testing, treatment, mental health issues and more, contact our Irvine medical clinic at (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.

Image Credit – PENpics Studio/Shutterstock.com

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LGBTQ+ Community Unites to Celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week

Lesbian Visibility Week in Orange County

April 26th to May 2nd, 2022 will mark the return of Lesbian Visibility Week. At Radiant Health Centers’ LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Orange County, the team will once again show solidarity with LGBTQ+ women and non-binary people across the world. Dating back to 1990, Lesbian Visibility Week has become an important fixture in the calendar. We celebrate this week through raising awareness of lesbian identities to performing vital work in tackling lesbian issues.

Celebrating Lesbian Visibility Week

Lesbian Visibility Week is an annual event created to shine a light on the lesbian community across the world. The week will see cities raising the Lesbian Pride flag in recognition of this vibrant community, one that is sometimes overlooked. With a series of events designed around the theme of visibility and raising awareness, it’s a chance to work on issues concerning inclusion, healthcare, discrimination and much more.

Healthcare in the Lesbian Community

With a range of challenges impacting LGBTQ+ women and non-binary people, healthcare will be an important topic during Lesbian Visibility Week. The Diva Survey found that 48% of lesbians reported having a mental health condition, with this number rising to 71% for non-binary people. Sadly, three out of four survey respondents also reported their mental health had suffered due to the pandemic and lockdowns.

And while access to better quality, compassionate healthcare is available through clinics such as Radiant Health Centers, challenges for the lesbian community are still out there. Studies have shown that many women face discrimination, stigmatization and barriers in accessing healthcare services. Workers within the medical field perform important roles that can improve the level of care received by LGBTQ+ women, and Lesbian Visibility Week is an excellent opportunity to address these concerns.

Improving Healthcare for the LGBTQ+ Community

With healthcare challenges affecting many lesbian women, it is important to work with providers who show care and consideration for their unique challenges. LGTBQ+ medical clinics like Radiant Health Centers offer valuable services like family planning, sexual health care, birth control, breast exams and cervical exams.

Our staff specializes in delivering these services for the LGBTQ+ community, and wants to turn the promise of healthcare equity and accessibility into a reality. Through a range of reproductive health services, lesbian women can take control of their health and make the right decisions for themselves and their families. These areas, along with many others that will be discussed, represent the importance of supporting Lesbian Visibility Week when it begins later this month.

Medical Care and Counseling at Orange County’s Leading LGBTQ+ Medical Clinic

Radiant Health Centers provides healthcare services to the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. For family planning, HIV treatment, STD testing and more, contact our Irvine medical clinic at (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.

Image Credit – Svet foto/Shutterstock.com

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LGBTQ+ Medical Clinic Expands Telehealth Services

Irvine LGBTQ+ telehealth medical care

Radiant Health Centers has been at the forefront of medical care in Irvine for many decades. The commitment to disease treatment and preventive care recently expanded with the introduction of LGBTQ+ telehealth services in Orange County. For the many patients who previously felt excluded from medical care, virtual calls are providing convenient access to dedicated medical providers.

Radiant Health Centers Adds Telehealth Services Program

The rise in telehealth is largely driven by the desire to give patients increased access to the highest level of medical care. For medical health providers, it also allows for effective management of ongoing care, treatment and medication.

At Radiant Health Centers, telehealth is used in conjunction with in-person visits for the treatment of HIV, STDs and hepatitis C. Patients can also access family planning, primary care services and hormone replacement therapy. With many of these services requiring extended management, telehealth provides an efficient companion or replacement for face-to-face visits at our Irvine clinic.

Telehealth Soars in Popularity

With the COVID-19 pandemic changing the face of medical care almost overnight, patients have become increasingly familiar with virtual communication with a provider. A recent survey published by the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that 90.9% of participants felt that a virtual visit made it easy to get the care they needed. In addition, 81.9% of people also believed the telehealth appointment was as good as an in-person visit.

In another survey conducted by GoodRx, 40% of patients indicated that due to the availability of telehealth they do interact more with their providers. With so many in the LGBTQ+ community facing barriers to physical and mental healthcare, easy access to knowledgeable and understanding providers can mean that an individual is more likely to seek out consistent medical care.

Why Many Patients Are Choosing Telehealth

The importance of telehealth for the LGBTQ+ community should not be underestimated. Following negative experiences with their local primary care provider, many patients become reluctant to visit a doctor. The telehealth services from Radiant Health Centers make it possible for Orange County residents to reach a compassionate medical team, free from concerns about prejudice or a lack of education regarding their needs.

Using telehealth services can provide patients with greater insights on their health and their needs. The service also delivers cost and convenience benefits, plus reduces the need for travel. Patients can address any medical concerns they may have during their ongoing treatment and arrange medication refills. By giving patients access to medical providers – along with their medical records using the patient portal – an individual is empowered to strive for improved well-being and to take control of their health.

Dedicated Telehealth Services for the Orange County LGBTQ+ Community

Radiant Health Centers provides secure and reliable telehealth services alongside our in-person visits. Our Orange County medical health providers are available for consultation by calling (949) 809-5700.

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