In this section:
Lesbian, gay and bisexual people: Discrimination and impact on general health care needs
It is sometimes assumed by health care professionals, policy makers, and patients that lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people do not have unique health needs as a consequence of their sexual orientation.
This, however, is not the case. Research suggests that LGB people have very specific concerns that are not necessarily met by service providers.
Research has demonstrated that LGB people can experience broad social inequalities. Discrimination and homophobia can have a significant impact on how they are treated by some health care providers.
Experience of discrimination in other areas of their lives, such as home, school or work, means LGB people may be reluctant to disclose their sexual orientation to their GP, because they anticipate discrimination, but then fail to receive appropriate health care.
It is likely that if a group of people experience discrimination and social exclusion, they are also likely to experience health inequalities. Research suggests that LGB people have very specific health concerns and that the health sector needs to deliver targeted appropriate care to patients on the grounds of their sexual orientation. LGB people feel that this is not always the case in current health care delivery.
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