LGBTQ+ Health

Inaugural State of LGBTQ Health National Survey

We are committed to improving healthcare needs and outcomes for LGBTQ+ communities. In 2022, The National Coalition for LGBTQ Health published the Inaugural State of LGBTQ Health National Survey which identified six focus areas:

1. LGBTQ+ providers are experiencing staff shortage, burnout, and retention.

2. Mental and behavioral health is the most significant need for the LGBTQ+ community. If you need help, we have several options including:

• Meritus Behavioral Health - Offering diagnosis, treatment and counseling.
• Mental Health Walk-In Care - Behavioral health urgent care for ages 6 and older.
• Meritus Crisis Center - In-patient care for those suffering from drug and/or alcohol addiction while waiting for admission to a program. 
• The Trevor Project.                                     

3. Numerous factors impact taking sexual health histories but it is an important element of LGBTQ+ health.

4. Need to expand sexual orientation and gender identity supports, such as incorporating pronouns.

• At Meritus Health patients can update this information in their MyChart patient portal or a team member can update it for them at any visit. 

5. LGBTQ+ providers are experiencing challenges with insurance and pre-authorizations for sexual health services.

6. COVID-19 impacted LGBTQ+ services such as linkage to care, HIV testing and case management.

• Meritus' centralized call center allows patients to schedule an appointment or inquire about services with one convenient phone number. Simply call 301-790-WELL (9355).
• MeritusNow also offers a convenient and virtual option for primary and urgent care visits.
• Testing is available at all Meritus Medical Lab locations and Meritus Infectious Disease Specialists.

To read more, visit: HealthLGBTQ – National Coalition for LGBTQ Health.