Introduction:
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) issues are among the health concerns that are not being fully addressed, despite the efforts of services and partnerships involved. The lack of recognition, understanding, and support for LGBTQ individuals has led to a range of health disparities in this population. This essay will discuss the aspects of this health concern not being addressed and describe the ultimate goals from Healthy People 2020 relating to this specific health concern.
Aspects of Health Concern Not Being Addressed:
Despite the efforts of services and partnerships involved, there are several aspects of LGBTQ health concerns that are not being addressed. Firstly, discrimination against LGBTQ individuals in healthcare settings is a significant issue that is often not addressed. LGBTQ individuals often avoid seeking healthcare due to fear of discrimination and judgment from healthcare providers, leading to a lack of access to necessary healthcare services. Moreover, the lack of awareness and training on LGBTQ health issues among healthcare providers contributes to the problem.
Secondly, mental health issues among LGBTQ individuals are not being addressed effectively. Studies have shown that LGBTQ individuals are at higher risk for mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, due to the stigma, discrimination, and social isolation they often face. However, there is a lack of access to culturally competent mental health services for LGBTQ individuals.
Thirdly, the lack of education and awareness among the general public and policymakers regarding LGBTQ issues is a significant barrier to addressing this health concern. There is a need for more education and awareness-raising activities to promote the understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ individuals in society.
Ultimate Goals from Healthy People 2020:
Healthy People 2020 has set several ultimate goals to address the health concerns of LGBTQ individuals. These goals include:
- Increase the number of healthcare providers who receive training on LGBTQ health issues: This goal aims to address the lack of awareness and training on LGBTQ health issues among healthcare providers, which contributes to the discrimination and lack of access to necessary healthcare services for LGBTQ individuals.
- Improve access to mental health services for LGBTQ individuals: This goal aims to address the mental health disparities experienced by LGBTQ individuals by improving access to culturally competent mental health services.
- Increase public awareness and education on LGBTQ issues: This goal aims to address the lack of education and awareness among the general public and policymakers regarding LGBTQ issues by promoting understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ individuals in society.
Similarities and Differences in the Data:
The data gathered and generated indicate that LGBTQ individuals experience a range of health disparities compared to the general population. Studies have shown that LGBTQ individuals are at higher risk for mental health disorders, substance abuse, and chronic diseases, such as HIV/AIDS and cancer. They are also less likely to seek healthcare services due to fear of discrimination and judgment from healthcare providers. The data also indicate that there is a lack of awareness and training on LGBTQ health issues among healthcare providers, contributing to the problem.
The difference in the data is that despite the efforts of services and partnerships involved, the health concerns of LGBTQ individuals are not being fully addressed. Discrimination against LGBTQ individuals in healthcare settings is still prevalent, and mental health services are often not culturally competent. There is also a lack of education and awareness among the general public and policymakers regarding LGBTQ issues.
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Community:
The strengths of the LGBTQ community include their resilience and ability to create supportive networks, both online and offline, to cope with the discrimination and stigma they face. The community also has active advocacy organizations that work to promote the rights and well-being of LGBTQ individuals. The weaknesses of the community include the lack of access to healthcare services, the mental health disparities they experience, and the lack of recognition and acceptance in society.
Areas Needing Improvement:
Improvement is needed in several areas to address the health concerns of LGBTQ individuals. Firstly