LGBTQ Care

What is LGBTQI care?

LGBTQI care is a branch of family medicine focused on serving the unique healthcare needs of people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or queer. Many patients who fall into these groups experience stigma and negative medical experiences on a regular basis. 

Although the gender spectrum and sexuality are rarely taught in medical school, Dr. Ziering has dedicated much of his time over the years to caring for the LGBTQI community at large. 

He was one of the first doctors to assist gay men during the HIV crisis of the 80s and early 90s and provides compassionate care for the Trans community, including managing hormone therapy, appropriate health management, and examinations relating to post affirmation surgery evaluations.

What is gender transition?

Gender transition is a group of medical procedures that help an individual achieve the outward gender identity with which they identify. 

For trans men and non-binary people, this might include:

• Hormone therapy
• Male chest reconstruction
• Hysterectomy
• Phalloplasty (construction of a penis)
• Metoidioplasty (surgery that causes the clitoris to function like a penis)

For trans women and non-binary people, gender transition might include hormone therapy, breast augmentation, orchiectomy (removal of the testicles), laser hair removal, or surgery to make the Adam’s apple smaller.

During a gender transition appointment, Dr. Ziering listens intently to your goals and genuinely makes an effort to understand how he can best help to achieve them. After gathering this information, he develops a custom gender transition plan to align with your needs.

Are LGBTQI individuals at higher risk of health problems?

Members of the LGBTQI community are more likely to experience certain health problems than their heterosexual counterparts. Experts aren’t entirely sure why this is, but it’s thought a lack of informed healthcare and minority stress play a role. Minority stress refers to the discrimination, stigma, and homophobia or transphobia experienced by LGBTQI individuals in their daily lives.

Some of the health problems that LGBTQI populations are more likely to encounter include:

• HIV and other STDs
• Higher rates of alcoholism and substance abuse
• Lower rates of mammography and Pap test screening
• Higher rates of smoking
• Higher rates of depression and anxiety

Members of the LGBTQI community are also more likely to experience violence and victimization.

What can I expect from an LGBTQI care appointment?

Dr. Ziering established his practice to provide a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free environment for all people and their families, regardless of gender identity, sexual identity, or medical issue. 

He understands that many LGBTQI people avoid visiting the doctor regularly due to stigma or negative experiences in the past. Dr. Ziering sets aside time to meet with each individual patient, ensuring their needs and goals are adequately addressed.

Patients can access traditional medical services such as physical exams, immunizations, laboratory testing, and preventive screenings, as well as more specialized care, including STD testing, hormone therapy, and guidance for sexual affirmation surgery.

Don’t wait to schedule an LGBTQI care appointment at the practice of Thomas S. Ziering, MD. Call the office and speak with a friendly staff member or book a consultation online today.