Navigating LGBTQ+ Healthcare as a Gay Man: Specialized Care for Our Community
Navigating LGBTQ+ Healthcare as a Gay Man: Why Specialized Services Matter
I still remember the first time I had to fight for my health. I was in my twenties, in college, still figuring out what it meant to be gay—and what it meant to stay healthy in a world that wasn’t built for guys like me.
After a broken condom and a long night in the ER, I found myself sitting in front of a trauma physician who barely made eye contact. His tone was cold, and his advice was dismissive:
“Come back in two months for an HIV test.”
But I knew that wasn’t enough. I knew I needed more. So, I pushed. I demanded that he call an infectious disease fellow to come down. It was the only way I was able to get PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis)—a medication that can prevent HIV infection if started within 72 hours. Back then, it wasn’t something they offered unless you asked for it, and even then, you had to fight for it.
That was almost twenty years ago. Unfortunately, experiences like that are still happening today. And it’s why specialized LGBTQ+ health care is so important.
Specialized LGBTQ+ Healthcare
Today, I go to a specialized LGBTQ+ health center at the Cleveland Clinic. It’s a completely different experience. There’s no judgment, no hesitation—just affirming, knowledgeable care. They focus specifically on gay men’s health, and they understand our unique needs.
Services like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), regular STI screenings, and mental health care are integrated into their system. There’s no need to explain yourself or advocate for care you should already be receiving. It’s how health care should be.
I’ve also seen how DoxyPrEP (doxycycline as post-exposure prophylaxis for other STIs) is becoming part of that care strategy. We are no longer just reacting—we’re preventing. This is progress. And it’s long overdue.
My Personal Role in PrEP’s Evolution
Long before PrEP was mainstream, I was reading the original clinical trial data on Truvada. I understood how big it could be. So I signed up for the clinical trial and became one of the first people in the U.S. to take PrEP.
Every day, I took my pill from a GPS-enabled container that sent a radio signal back to the research center to confirm I’d taken my dose. We didn’t know for sure back then if it would work. But I believed it could save lives.
Now we know it does. PrEP reduces the risk of contracting HIV by up to 99% when taken consistently. And yet, too many people still don’t know it’s available—or feel safe enough to ask their doctors about it.
For Those New to LGBTQ+ Healthcare: What You Need to Know
If you’re new to this community, or just starting to think about your health in this way, here’s what I wish someone had told me earlier:
• You have options. You don’t need to settle for a doctor who doesn’t listen or understand.
• PrEP works, and it’s more accessible than ever. It’s a powerful tool for preventing HIV.
• PEP is an emergency option, but it’s time-sensitive. If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, you have up to 72 hours to start it.
• Regular STI testing is normal and responsible. There’s no shame in taking care of yourself.
• Mental health is health. If you’re struggling, there are LGBTQ+-affirming therapists out there who understand what you’re dealing with.
You deserve a provider who respects you and knows how to care for you. If your current doctor doesn’t, find one who does.
For Health Care Providers: Do Better
If you’re a doctor or a health care professional reading this, know this: you have the power to make a huge difference in the lives of your LGBTQ+ patients.
• Respect matters. Treat us as individuals, not assumptions.
• Make routine STI screenings a standard part of care for gay men—without us having to ask.
• Know about PrEP and PEP. If you aren’t informed, educate yourself. Your patients shouldn’t have to teach you about their health.
• Understand that mental health and sexual health are connected.
• And if you don’t have answers? Refer us to someone who does. We’ll respect you for it.
Supporting the Community: Giving Back and Moving Forward With LGBTQ+ healthcare
HIV prevention and treatment have always been part of my story—and part of this blog’s mission. That’s why we support organizations like the Cleveland AIDS Taskforce. They provide education, resources, and direct services to people living with and impacted by HIV.
While I’m HIV-negative, I believe deeply in standing with those living with HIV, and ensuring dignity and respect are always part of the conversation. Especially when it comes to our youth, who deserve better access to prevention, education, and care.
The Bottom Line: You Are Not Alone
Navigating health as a gay man can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. There are doctors, clinics, and organizations that are here for you. Specialized LGBTQ+ health care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Take control of your health. Find a provider who understands you. Ask about PrEP. Get tested regularly. And if you need support, reach out.
Your health matters. You matter.
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