The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning(LGBTQ) is a vulnerable group that has suffered discrimination, oppression, and stigmatization which has had a negative impact on health. “Multiple factors contribute to the underutilization of health-care service by LGBT populations, including the high cost of health care and lack of access to health insurance coverage, scarceness of health professionals competent in LGBT health, fear of stigmatization based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and lack of trust in the HCP because many HCPs lack knowledge of LGBT persons’ health-care needs, and some have negative attitudes toward them” there have been numerous studies documenting mental health disparities for sexual minorities compared to heterosexuals citing sexual minorities experienced harassment, stressful social interactions, and anti-gay victimization. Such experiences have been linked to negative impacts on mental health that have resulted in greater likelihood of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, substance abuse, and suicide. “Research shows that LGBTQ+ populations of all ages disproportionately experience more instances of mental health and substance use disorders, suicidality, and poorer wellbeing outcomes compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers” (US Department of Health and Human Services, 2021).   Keeping an open and honest relationship as well as asking the right questions may allow the patient to trust the provider in opening up about their health and wellbeing. Respecting a patient’s identity while being open, empathetic, and understanding to what the patient identifies as are important in establishing a patient-provider relationship. Being culturally competent and caring of the LGBTQ patient population will improve patient receptiveness to utilizing the healthcare system, eliminate health disparities, and improve patient outcomes. Needs a peer response from a student nurse practitioner’s point of view with references. Health Science Science Nursing NURSING MSN 571 Share QuestionEmailCopy link Comments (0)