LGBT Adults’ Experiences with Discrimination and Health Care Disparities: Findings from the KFF Survey of Racism, Discrimination, and Health

A new report released by KFF shows that both stigma & discrimination continue to be major drivers in health disparities amongst LGBTQ+ adults. Looking at discrimination alongside experiences of mental health crisis, homelessness, and well-being, KFF researchers found a relationship between discrimination and adverse mental & physical health outcomes in healthcare settings amongst LGBTQ adults at a higher rate than non-LGBTQ adults. Moreover, these negative outcomes were highest for LGBT adults who are younger, lower income, women, or report chronic illness or disability.  

These findings, though troubling, underscore the need for policy reform at both the state and federal level around provider/institutional training as it relates to providing care to the LGBTQ+ community; increased access to healthcare; social determinants of health screening; and resolving the current patchwork of protections v. anti-LGTBQ+ discrimination laws across state legislatures.  

We encourage you to read the report and in full.