The 22nd National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week is scheduled for March 18–22, 2024. As Orange County’s best-known LGBTQ+ medical clinic, Radiant Health Centers is pleased to once again support this much-needed week of events. With increased focus on the various health challenges experienced by so many in the community, this occasion is an opportunity for meaningful discussion and change in LGBTQ+ health care.
What Is National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week?
National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week was created 22 years ago by The National Coalition for LGBTQ Health. Acknowledging a lack of attention concerning the issues affecting LGBTQ+ health care, the event aimed to raise awareness and action. Its purpose was for individuals and organizations to join together and learn about real-world problems and make lasting improvements.
Today, National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week follows the same ethos as it creates both in-person and online events. Topics and issues covered include barriers to reliable providers, problems with workplace healthcare, how to find an LGBTQ-friendly healthcare home and more.
Promoting Vital Vibrant Voices During National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week
Vital Vibrant Voices is the theme for this year’s National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week. Our theme highlights the need for diverse, vibrant voices to address LGBTQ+ healthcare challenges and advocate for change. During events and panels, medical professionals and LGBTQ+ community members will discuss their experiences and identify ways to make significant improvements to health services across the country.
From dealing with discrimination in some medical settings to facing higher rates of mental health issues, problems still exist. For instance, data published in the Journal of Adolescent Health indicates that in one year, 23% of gay, lesbian and bisexual students attempted suicide, compared with 5% of straight high school students. This issue and other health challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community will be addressed during the upcoming week’s events.
Improving Health Outcomes in Orange County
For many years, Radiant Health Centers has been listening to voices within the LGBTQ+ community, and responding with improvements in healthcare. We have made important changes like adding youth programs, making sure all staff members are culturally competent, implementing a telemedicine system and more.
Our primary medical care services include family planning, HIV and STD testing, LGBTQ+ affirming care and hormone replacement therapy. We hope you’ll join us during National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week as we raise awareness of healthcare disparities and work together to improve healthcare standards for our Orange County community.
Primary Medical Care and Counseling in Irvine
Radiant Health Centers is committed to delivering knowledgeable and compassionate health services to the Orange County community. We provide primary care, STD testing, HIV treatment, counseling and youth programs at our Irvine clinic. To reach us, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.
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