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- Presentation
Physician Advocacy: Engaging in Policy Change for LGBTQ+ Health
Description
The talk discusses the role of physician advocacy in promoting policy change for LGBTQ+ health amid a shifting political landscape. The speaker, sharing their journey through advocacy and medical research, emphasizes the growing visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals—approximately 9.3% of US adults—mostly among younger generations. They highlight the challenges posed by a patchwork of LGBTQ+ policies across states, noting recent executive actions that threaten healthcare access and protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in educational settings. The speaker advocates for organized medicine to engage in public discourse, support community involvement, and utilize grassroots efforts to combat regressive policies. They stress the necessity of collaborative advocacy, emphasizing that engaging local organizations can amplify voices and create change. The discussion touches on historical healthcare disparities faced by this community and the need for data collection on LGBTQ+ health issues. Moreover, the speaker encourages medical professionals to ally with their LGBTQ+ peers and insists that advocacy cannot be a solitary effort, but rather a collective one that builds trust within the community. The session concludes with recognizing the importance of direct action and community engagement in influencing future healthcare policies and practices.
View moreConclusions
- The proportion of adults identifying as LGBTQ+ is increasing, with 9.3% reported in recent surveys.
- Younger generations (Gen Z and Millennials) show significantly higher identification rates than older generations.
- The political landscape presents significant barriers to LGBTQ+ advocacy and policy improvement.
- There exists a patchwork of LGBTQ+ policies across the U.S., with variations in protection and support depending on state laws.
- Executive orders by the current administration have removed protections for LGBTQ+ individuals and have the potential to harm health outcomes.
- Data collection for sexual orientation and gender identity is becoming increasingly challenged, affecting research and advocacy efforts.
- Involvement in street activism and community engagement is crucial for driving change and raising awareness about LGBTQ+ issues.
- Medical organizations like the AMA are urged to advocate for policies that support LGBTQ+ health needs and oppose discriminatory practices.
- Collaboration among different institutions and communities is key to fostering a more inclusive healthcare environment and addressing professional diversity.
- The role of allies in supporting LGBTQ+ rights and the importance of vocalizing opposition to harmful policies were highlighted as essential actions.
- Carl G. Streed Jr., MD, MPH, FACP, FAHA, et al. Foreword to Harvard Medical School's LGBT Health Research Program: A Clinical Guide to Resilience. Springer, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, 2025.
- Eckstrand KL, Potter J, editors. Gender Minority Cancer and Health Promotion: A Clinical Guide to Resilience. Springer, 2025.
- Vasquez R, De Maio F, Streed C. Facing Political Attacks on Medical Education - The Future of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Medicine. N Engl J Med. 2025;392:941-944. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMp2500489.