The physical environment that contributes to healthy LGBT individuals includes: Shortage of health care providers who are knowledgeable and culturally competent in LGBT health.Lack of social programs targeted to and/or appropriate for LGBT youth, adults, and elders.Lack of laws protecting against bullying in schools.
Legal discrimination in access to health insurance, employment, housing, marriage, adoption, and retirement benefits.Social determinants affecting the health of LGBT individuals largely relate to oppression and discrimination. For example, in part because bars and clubs were often the only safe places where LGBT individuals could gather, alcohol abuse has been an ongoing problem. Understanding LGBT health starts with understanding the history of oppression and discrimination that these communities have faced. This will allow researchers and policy makers to accurately characterize LGBT health and disparities. In order to effectively address LGBT health issues, we need to securely and consistently collect SOGI information in national surveys and health records. Curbing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with interventions that work 15.Providing supportive social services to reduce suicide and homelessness among youth 14.