The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced plans to more fully address LGBT healthcare issues. The announcement came after yesterday’s report from the Institute of Medicine advocating more federal research on LGBT health.
President Obama has been instrumental in the push to provide additional support in this area, having directed Secretary Sebelius to recommend the changes as part of his April 2010 memorandum covering medical and hospital-related issues.
The changes announced today include plans to collect LGBT health data through federally-funded survey programs, provide guidance to states concerning access to federal welfare programs and protection of same-sex partner’s assets regarding Medicaid, and offer additional outreach spreading HHS funding to organizations serving LGBT communities nationwide.
The Human Rights Campaign has played a large role in campaigning for LGBT healthcare research and support.
Find the full list of HHS recommendations for LGBT health on their website.
