20th National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week Is on the Horizon

Irvine LGBTQ+ National Health Awarness Week

The 20th National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week has been scheduled for March 21–25, 2022. At Radiant Health Centers’ Orange County LGBTQ+ medical clinic, our staff will take part in this annual event to raise awareness of the many health challenges still facing the community. From the ongoing HIV epidemic and patient discrimination to mental health and trans health issues, the week will be marked by advocacy, discussion and a joining together of the LGBTQ+ community.

National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week Is Fast Approaching

With so many LGBTQ+ people facing discrimination and health disparities, National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week provides an opportunity to work on a common goal – building a more equitable and effective healthcare approach, one that’s sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ+ community.

Even today, many individuals face discrimination from their doctor, a medical facility or both. This lack of understanding often translates into reluctance to visit a medical provider, missed appointments and so on. Education and awareness are crucial in combating these issues and ensuring individuals get access to the level of treatment they need and deserve.

Radiant Health Centers Supports National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week

Radiant Health Centers stands as a beacon among the many other Orange County medical providers out there. Our educated and compassionate staff is committed to our LGBTQ+ patients and community. We make each individual welcome to feel empowered to express themselves during mental health counseling or health visits. During this important week, we want to join with other organizations in pushing forward to end the HIV epidemic in Orange County.

Since the creation of National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week – supplemented by other work in the community – there has indeed been some success. Notably, between 2011 and 2020, the number of male HIV cases in Orange County fell by 20%. Yet many challenges remain, shown by the 36.4% rise in HIV cases diagnosed among Black Americans over the same time period.

In the fight against HIV, access to knowledge and effective healthcare delivery are important elements that cannot be underestimated. As Orange County’s leading LGBTQ+ medical clinic, we work tirelessly to improve health outcomes. We continue to deliver HIV, STD and hepatitis C testing, family planning services, birth control, PrEP, PEP and Rapid ART HIV treatments and more.

Live Out Loud for LGBTQ Health

While the challenges for the LGBTQ+ community are clear, the upcoming events are defined by optimism, relevance and timeliness. The week’s theme is Live Out Loud for LGBTQ Health, and it was created to help people speak openly about the need for inclusive, accessible and understanding healthcare. By speaking out about health issues, it will be possible to raise the standards for LGBTQ+ treatment across Orange County.

Access Orange County’s Leading LGBTQ+ Medical Clinic

Radiant Health Centers provides healthcare services to the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. For help with HIV treatment, family planning, STD testing, counseling and more, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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OC Unites for National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day in Irvine

At Radiant Health Centers, we are recognizing National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) throughout the month, highlighting the importance of HIV testing, prevention and treatment. Black Americans are disproportionately impacted by HIV for a wide range of reasons, but through awareness and community action, progress will continue to be made.

How HIV Impacts Black Americans

The CDC estimated that in 2019, Black people accounted for 40% of people with HIV, yet only made up 13% of the total U.S. population. There are many reasons for such a disparity, including systemic inequalities, racism, economic disadvantages, housing factors and poor access to HIV testing and treatment. Therefore, if the country is going to end the HIV epidemic once and for all, the health disparities and inequities faced by Black Americans must be tackled.

Celebrating the Progress Made on NBHAAD

As a grassroots effort to provide education, reduce stigma and increase access to HIV testing and treatment, NBHAAD continues to forge ahead. And while there are significant barriers to overcome, the rapid growth in HIV infections has steadied and there is room for optimism. For example, among African American gay and bisexual men between the ages of 13 and 24, infection levels fell.

A persistent challenge highlighted by the NBHAAD is the link between social factors and health outcomes. Black people from communities facing discrimination, poor housing conditions, lower income, racism and other social inequalities are more likely to become infected with HIV – along with being affected by other health issues.

Steps like reducing STD transmission, dealing with the stigma of HIV, delivering effective treatment to vulnerable people (and so on) will be required to bridge the gap. These health disparities have been made even more clear during the COVID-19 pandemic, where communities of color were disproportionately impacted. At Radiant Health Centers we are committed to providing Black Americans with the highest level of healthcare and mental health support, while delivering much-needed HIV treatment throughout Orange County.

Delivering Rapid ART and PrEP HIV Treatments

NBHAAD is also a time to celebrate the major developments in HIV treatment. Through testing, treatment and proactive measures, it is possible for people living with HIV to maintain good health and avoid transmitting the virus to others. Unfortunately, there is still work to be done to ensure Black Americans get access to the available treatments.

Of the people who could benefit from PrEP treatment, only 8.2% of Black Americans were prescribed PrEp in 2019. With access to treatments like PrEP and Rapid ART, it will be possible to reduce HIV infection levels and improve health outcomes in Black communities.

Trusted HIV Testing and Treatment Services in Orange County

At Radiant Health Centers, we provide reliable HIV testing and rapid treatment for the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. If you have any questions about our services or want to arrange HIV or STD testing, contact us today. Call our Irvine medical clinic at (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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Mental Health Counseling for the LGBTQ+ Community

Orange County LGBTQ+ mental health counseling

For more than 30 years, Radiant Health Centers has been offering mental health counseling throughout Orange County. People living with HIV, along with many others in our community, face significant mental, physical, social and economic challenges. Access to professional counseling services has proven to be an important tool for dealing with mental and emotional distress, improving health and well-being throughout the area.

Mental Health Counseling for the LGBTQ+ Community

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenging time for everyone and, like so many others, Radiant Health Centers has had to adapt to changing circumstances. Much of the work performed by professional counselors during the past two years has taken place virtually, including individual and group mental health support groups. We hope to get back to in-person sessions soon.

During 60-minutes sessions over Zoom, by phone or in-person, people living with HIV and others in the LGBTQ+ community discuss pressing issues, such as depression, anxiety, troubled relationships, stress, substance abuse and more. Over the last fiscal year, this has led to 264 individuals getting the mental health counseling they need via individual or group sessions.

Dedicated LGBTQ+ Counseling Addressing Community Needs

Many people within the Orange County LGBTQ+ community struggle to get medical care tailored to their individual needs. We have previously reported on transgender barriers to physical and mental healthcare, but the challenges extend to countless others.

Through the counseling services at Radiant Health Centers, individuals can access sensitive and responsive support that is compassionate and understanding of their circumstances. Sessions are culturally sensitive and available in both English and Spanish. Details of upcoming counseling sessions can be found here.

What Can Clients Expect From LGBTQ+ Counseling?

Radiant Health Centers’ counseling sessions deliver individual and group therapy, couples and family therapy, and age-appropriate therapy for children and the elderly. Some session goals include a mental health assessment, the development of an individualized treatment and goal planning.

The varied sessions address subjects like coping strategies for substance use and addiction, support for anyone recently diagnosed with HIV and mental health support for nonbinary and trans youth and families. Counseling sessions are a safe and supportive space for anyone in the LGBTQ+ community, regardless of their HIV status, to tackle life challenges through individual therapy or group calls.

Dedicated LGBTQ+ Mental Health Support for Orange County Clients

At Radiant Health Centers, our team has been committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community in overcoming health challenges for many years. As anyone who has experience with mental health issues will know, a crucial part of this support is through counseling that deals with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues and the daily stress of coping with health problems. With that in mind, we encourage anyone with mental health concerns to contact our LGBTQ+ medical clinic and access professional support.

Access Mental Health Counseling in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers is committed to providing mental health counseling services to the LGBTQ+ community. If you require phone, video or in-person counseling, contact us for help today. Call our Irvine center at (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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New Date: 36th Annual Gala Returns for 1970s-Themed Event

RADIANT HEALTH CENTERS 36TH ANNUAL GALA

It’s official! The 36th Annual  Radiant Health Centers’ Gala will take place Friday, May 13, 2022. After last year’s virtual event, the gala returns for an in-person celebration at Grand Gimeno in Orange. Entering its 36th year, the annual event will continue its tradition of raising money to support LGBTQ+ health equity and HIV care in Orange County.

Club Radiant Theme at the Radiant Health Centers’ Annual Gala

The gala will have a distinctly ‘70s mood, featuring a “Club Radiant” theme. Attendees are encouraged to wear ‘70s attire to celebrate the golden age of disco. Expect an evening of action-packed entertainment featuring a cocktail hour, dinner, live entertainment and awards – all taking place under the disco ball.

Building on the Success of the 35th Annual Gala

Last year’s gala, a virtual event, was a big success for Radiant Health Centers, raising $182,000 for HIV testing and LGBTQ+ specialized medical care although it took place in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2021 Back to the Future virtual event still managed to bring the same joyous positivity guests have come to expect from Radiant Health Centers’ gala. This year, event organizers aim to build on that success by raising even more funds to benefit Orange County’s LGBTQ+ community.

How to Secure Your Place at the Radiant Health Centers’ Annual Gala

A pre-sale ticket launch allows guests to book tables before tickets go on sale to the general public. Purchasing early means Radiant Health Centers can underwrite the event in advance and all subsequent funds raised on the night of the gala go directly to supporting its healthcare programs. All attendees will be required to have proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of the event.

Honoring Two Distinguished Guests

The 2022 recipients of the Radiant Compassion Award have been announced as Alison Arngrim and Tony Morrison. The gala will be a chance to honor the work of these two figures for their advocacy for HIV/AIDS issues.

Alison, an author and actress widely recognized for her role as Nellie Oleson on the iconic television series “Little House on the Prairie,” is an activist for LGBTQ+ and AIDS organizations. Tony, an award-winning producer for “Good Morning America,” who talked about his experiences living with HIV this year, has helped bring further awareness to HIV/AIDS.

Supporting People Living With HIV in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers is the largest nonprofit HIV service provider in the county and provides more than 5,000 individuals and families with services including STI, HIV and HepC testing, HIV care and counseling. If you want to purchase a table and support the work of the leading Orange County LGBTQ+ medical clinic, contact us for further details.

Serving the LGBTQ+ Community in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers is here to serve the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County, with HIV care, STI testing, counseling, social services and much more. If you would like more information about our services or the upcoming Annual Gala, call (949) 809-5700 or contact us online.

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2021 Food Insecurity Campaign Exceeds Expectations

Nutrition services food insecurity fundraiser in Irvine, CA

To close out 2021, Radiant Health Centers asked the community in Orange County to donate generously to fight against food insecurity. The response was overwhelming – and a final tally shows donations have far exceeded expectations. With donations going to the Nutrition Services program at Radiant Health Centers, the most vulnerable people in the community will benefit enormously from this generous giving.

Fundraising to Fight Food Insecurity in Orange County

Thanks to a generous donor who matched the first $50,000 we exceeded the fundraising goal for our Nutrition Services program, raising more than $126k. Everyone at Radiant Health Centers would like to give a heartfelt thank you to the many people across Orange County and beyond who donated so generously. The support of each and every donor allows Radiant Health Centers to provide food to the most vulnerable people experiencing ongoing food insecurity.

While many are aware of the health issues facing people living with HIV, challenges like food insecurity – plus lack of access to social services and counseling – are less well-documented. With a shared vision of the end of the HIV epidemic and healthcare equity, Radiant Health Centers aims to tackle these challenges together, as a community.

Nutrition Services Are a Vital Part of Our Mission

People living with HIV can often struggle to maintain a healthy weight, potentially leading to further health concerns. The Nutrition Services program at Radiant Health Centers helps anyone who qualifies by providing a balanced diet, including vitamins, dietary supplements and high-quality meals. At Radiant Health Centers, our Registered Dietitian helps people understand the types of meals and ingredients that will contribute to their good health.

In addition, thanks to these fundraising efforts, some of the most vulnerable people in Orange County will now have access to medically tailored meals that provide the nutrition they need. Of course, meals cost – and it will be possible to reach more people with crucial nutrition because the community has helped us exceed this fundraising goal.

Donate to Our Food Pantry and Help the Orange County LGBTQ+ Community

Every donation to Radiant Health Centers is greatly appreciated – and goes directly into helping the people who need it most. This includes medical treatment, mental health support and counseling, healthy meals and medication. If you would like to support us as we serve the needs of local clients, you can donate to Radiant Health Centers here.

Radiant Health Centers provides support for the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV in Orange County. Our range of support and treatment services includes HIV testing and treatment, STI testing, social services and counseling. For more information on our services, call (949) 809-5700 or contact us now.

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Postponed: 36th Annual Gala 1970s-Themed Event

Update As of January 6, 2022: Radiant Health Centers is closely monitoring the rising concerns related to the coronavirus and we want to assure you that we are taking precautions to protect the health and well-being of our clients, staff, and community.

One precautionary measure is to postpone our annual gala, scheduled for Jan 29, 2022, at The Grand Gimeno to a later date to be announced. Our staff will be in touch with those who have made a commitment to our gala to discuss our next steps.

We realize this may cause an inconvenience for some and we apologize. We look forward to announcing our rescheduled date and the opportunity for us to get together to celebrate our mutual dedication to the health of our community.

We thank you in advance for your patience as we navigate this fluid situation.

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