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Talking to your provider about being LGBTQ+

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Find a PCP who helps you feel comfortable

Your primary care provider (PCP) is the doctor who will give you most of your care. It’s important to have a PCP who helps you feel comfortable.

Your PCP can help you get general health screenings, physical exams, and prescription drugs. They can also help you get HIV and AIDs testing and sexually transmitted infection (STI) treatment.

Find a PCP who is right for you.


If you talk to your provider about being LGBTQ+*, your PCP can:

  • Pay better attention to health issues that affect people who are LGBTQ+.
  • Learn to use the terms, names, and pronouns you use.
  • Refer you to other providers who are welcoming to people who are LGBTQ+.
  • Better involve you in decisions about your health.


Common questions you may have about your provider.

If I tell my provider about my sexual orientation or gender identity, will they share it with other people?

  • Your health care provider is legally required to keep conversations you have with them confidential. They are bound by laws and policies to keep your information private. If you are under 18, laws will vary by state, and policies may vary by medical practice. You can ask your provider how they will share this information. You can also ask your provider not to enter this information into your medical record.


What if my provider uses the wrong terms or pronouns when referring to me?

  • Providers may not always know what terms you use. Let them know how you describe yourself. For example, say “I identify as non-binary and don’t use those pronouns. You can use ‘they’ or my name.”


What if I still don’t feel comfortable coming out to my provider?

  • There are several ways to find a provider you connect with. Talk to friends about providers or use the resources here. It’s important to find a provider you are comfortable with so they can give you the best care.

 

*Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ).