Alliance releases Action Brief addressing LGBTQ+ behavioral health care barriers
In recognition of the upcoming Transgender Awareness Week, and building off of its Pride Month documentary viewing and panel discussion, the Alliance has released an Action Brief that focuses on addressing barriers to behavioral health care for the LGBTQ+ community.
Across Washington, LGBTQ+ population is estimated at 5.2% and represents about 6% of the workforce – the vast majority of whom have insurance coverage.
However, a 2020 survey shows that 80 percent reported putting off care. A majority of the respondents, 51 percent, reported they delayed care because of distrust of doctors.
The Action Brief, which draws on the robust discussion from the “Between the Shades” documentary screening and expert panel, highlights how health care providers, health plans, and health insurance purchasers can create a culture that challenges existing barriers and paves the way for greater access to necessary behavioral health care.
For those interested in additional information about the documentary viewing and panel discussion, the Alliance has shared a video that captures the conversations.
The Alliance has also collected and shared helpful mental resources for LGBTQ+ individuals and their friends and family.