Healthcare for the LGBTQ+ Community

At Summa Health, we provide high-quality, compassionate care for all patients. We understand that the LGBTQ+ community seek care in a space that’s welcoming and affirming. 

Patient Rights & Responsibilities

Learn more about the rights and responsibilities of Summa Health patients at http://www.summahealth.org/patientvisitor/Patients/patientrights.

Visitation

Summa Health respects the rights of patients to designate visitors, regardless of whether the visitors are legally related to the patients. Reference to family refers to family as defined by the patient. Visitation privileges will not be denied based on the individual’s demographics or other protected factors. 

Tips for Healthcare Providers

• Educate yourself. Learn about the specific health issues facing facing patients, including those in the LGBTQ+ community.
• Be sensitive. Make sure you and your staff use patient and visitors preferred name.    
• Present visual cues. Displaying an HRC equal sign or other support will demonstrate that your office is a safe space for all.
• Revise client forms. Allow options for gender and use neutral terms like “partner” or “spouse” rather than “single,” “married” or “divorced.” Use “parent 1” and “parent 2” to include same-sex couples raising children.
• Don’t assume. Avoid making assumptions about a patient based on their appearance.
• When taking a sexual history, ask, “Are your current or past sexual partners men, women or both?”
• Listen attentively. Be sensitive to the fact that this disclosure may be difficult for your patients.

*Tips borrowed from the National LGBTQ+ Health Education Center: https://www.hrc.org/resources/coming-out-to-your-doctor