Surge in Mpox Cases Highlights Need for Vaccine Access

Mpox vaccines in Irvine.

As concerns rise over the spread of a highly contagious form of mpox, there are increasing calls for at-risk groups to get vaccinated. The CDC recommends that those with certain risk factors access vaccine and immunization services to protect themselves against this more severe outbreak. Radiant Health Centers will step up efforts to stop the spread of the disease with an accessible mpox vaccine program for Orange County residents.

Contagious Form of Mpox Leads to Call for Greater Vaccine Coverage

In August 2024, the World Health Organization declared mpox a global public health emergency after an uptick in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This declaration comes only two years after the last mpox outbreak that led to a massive global response and widespread vaccine rollout.

While the 2022 outbreak was significant, the Clade 2 strain was milder than many had anticipated, with a death rate of only 0.2%. Unfortunately, the latest version of the virus (called Clade 1) appears to be far more virulent and severe. CDC reports suggest Clade 1 has historically led to up to 10% of deaths from the infection, though lower figures of between 1–3.3% have been identified for this current strain. As with previous outbreaks, it is vital to stay informed about mpox in Orange County, and to get vaccinated if you are at risk.

Vaccines Can Stop the Spread of Mpox Among High-Risk Groups

Full protection against both types of mpox requires two doses of the vaccine, administered at least 28 days apart. Patients who previously received the first dose are advised to get the second dose as soon as possible after the four weeks have passed, though individuals that have recovered from mpox won’t need the vaccine.

Currently there are no mass vaccination programs planned to tackle the disease. Rather, vaccines are recommended for those who have had close contact with someone who has mpox, and for people belonging to high-risk groups. These at-risk groups include men who have sex with men and, in the last six months, have had a sexually transmitted infection or had sex with more than one person.

COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines Are as Vital as Ever

As we move into the fall and winter respiratory illness season, it’s also critical to stay up-to-date with COVID-19 and flu vaccines. These immunizations are crucial in protecting individuals and the Orange County community during the months when respiratory infections typically peak. People can receive these vaccinations, along with our HIV treatments, counseling and primary medical care services, at Radiant Health Centers’ Irvine medical clinic.

Get Access to Leading Vaccine Services in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides vaccines for mpox, COVID-19, influenza and other viral diseases. Contact us for help with immunizations, testing, primary care and other vital services. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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Orange County’s First FQHC Look-Alike for LGBTQ+ Community

Orange County Federally Qualified Health Center.

Radiant Health Centers has become Orange County’s first and only Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alike dedicated to LGBTQ+ and HIV communities. After nearly 40 years of committed service to health and HIV care, our Irvine LGBTQ+ medical clinic is proud to take this important step forward. With our new FQHC designation we can now provide greater access to primary care services for the whole community, while also expanding our LGBTQ+ and HIV treatment options.

Orange County Health Center Receives Federal Designation

Following a comprehensive review process by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Radiant Health Centers earned its designation as a FQHC Look-Alike. In order to qualify, the organization had to demonstrate its strict adherence to HRSA guidelines, which include the following.

  • Serve populations or areas that are medically underserved.
  • Provide services on a sliding fee scale according to a patient’s financial capability.
  • Meet high administrative, clinical, financial and accountability standards.
  • Offer primary, preventive and supportive health services to the local community.

We have expanded our healthcare services considerably in recent years, reaching more patients and prioritizing healthcare equity and comprehensive care for all. Our patients also know they can rely on us to provide a culturally competent healthcare service. With the FQHC designation, the organization can go further, increasing available services and reaching more underserved individuals.

Expanding Healthcare Services for the Orange County Community

As an FQHC Look-Alike, we now have increased capabilities to serve the Orange County community. Barriers to healthcare access are still an unfortunate reality for many LGBTQ+ people, as well as others experiencing geographic or cultural challenges. The enhanced federal support that the FQHC designation makes possible can bridge this gap, offering access to more services and enhanced patient care.

While HIV treatment remains a critical part of our mission at Radiant Health Centers, patients will now benefit from additional healthcare service options, including medical, dental and behavioral healthcare. Patients can also access preventive services, chronic disease management, plus supportive resources such as transportation, nutrition, housing assistance and case management. Additionally, financial barriers will be minimized to ensure that everyone can receive the care they need, regardless of income.

How Orange County Benefits From Our FQHC Designation

Research into healthcare for LGBTQ+ individuals in Orange County has revealed significant health disparities, structural and access barriers, even discriminatory practices. These studies also found that patients feel more comfortable accessing a single location for their medical needs. As an FQHC Look-Alike, we are now better positioned to meet the health needs of the whole community, including specialized LGBTQ+-related care, HIV treatment, primary care, social services and mental health programs.

Visit Orange County’s Leading Health Center Dedicated to LGBTQ+ Care

For dependable primary care, HIV treatment and counseling services, contact Radiant Health Centers in Irvine. We are committed to providing specialized services for LGBTQ+ individuals, and comprehensive care for all those in the Orange County community who need it. Contact us at (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.

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Research Confirms Positive Impact of Hormone Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy benefits.

Access to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) contributes positively to the mental health and quality of life of transgender people. Supported by insights from a number of recent studies, the benefits of HRT reinforce the need for accessible, compassionate gender-affirming care. As Orange County’s largest LGBTQ+ medical clinic, we are committed to ending health disparities and supporting transgender individuals through their transition.

Surveys Show Increased Well-Being After Transition

People with gender dysphoria can feel significant discomfort at the differences between their gender identity and the sex assigned at birth. In recent years, research has shown that gender-affirming hormone treatment alleviates distress related to gender identity, reduces suicidal ideation, increases body positivity and improves well-being overall.

These benefits were demonstrated in the largest-ever U.S. survey of transgender people (published earlier this year). Of the 90,000 respondents, 94% said they were more satisfied with life after transitioning. For those currently receiving HRT, 88% reported feeling a lot more satisfied.

Transgender People Still Face Health Disparities

While various studies and real-life experiences underscore the importance of access to gender-affirming care, transgender barriers to physical and mental healthcare are still a reality for many. Unfortunately, medical discrimination is still a significant issue in many healthcare facilities, with patients reporting negative experiences that include abusive language and the use of incorrect pronouns.

WIthin the population of LGBTQ+ people, the CDC has drawn attention to higher risks of type 2 diabetes, HIV and other chronic health conditions. Many areas have limited provider availability, and this – along with discriminatory healthcare practices and lack of insurance coverage – means that people frequently experience difficulty finding appropriate care, resulting in poor health outcomes.

The Impact of Discrimination on Transgender People

While much progress has been made in advancing LGBTQ+ rights over recent decades, discrimination is still a serious problem even in California. Hate crimes and discriminatory practices in healthcare can prevent transgender people from receiving gender-affirming care, and such incidents erode trust in our healthcare system.

The California Department of Justice (DOJ) maintains that each individual should have access to age-appropriate, medically necessary health services, including access to gender-affirming care. However, with numerous bills introduced to limit this access for transgender youth, it’s important to continue to advocate for the rights of LGBTQ+ people.

Accessing Hormone Replacement Therapy at Our Medical Clinic

For almost 40 years, Radiant Health Centers has provided compassionate healthcare for the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. We offer HRT treatment, counseling, primary medical care services and more. At our clinic, visitors will find a supportive environment for transgender people, and receive specialized care from our knowledgeable staff. Today and into the future, we’ll continue our push to increase awareness of healthcare options and expand access to this life-changing care.

Access Hormone Replacement Therapy Services in Irvine

Radiant Health Centers provides gender-affirming hormone therapy services for the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. For dependable HRT, primary care, counseling and family planning, visit our Irvine medical clinic. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.

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