About LGBTQ+ Health Working Group

The RI Department of Health identified LGBTQ+ health as an area where many disparities exist due to barriers to accessing affirming care.  Since Newport does not currently advertise any LGBTQ+ safe health care spaces, the HEZ formed the LGBTQ+ Health Equity Working Group in 2020 to help address access to affirming health care in Newport.  In addition, the group will strive to accomplish the goals listed below in order to make the City of Newport more inclusive and welcoming to LGBTQ+ HEZ residents.

Goals:

• Find out what medical and mental health care providers are currently doing to provide affirming care to LGBTQ+ patients.
• Advocate for a Blue Cross Blue Shield Safe Zone in a medical facility.
• Advocate for a Blue Cross Blue Shield Safe Zone in a mental health facility.
• Advocate for LGBTQ+ – affirming and welcoming spaces within community organizations that serve HEZ residents.
• Facilitate connections to resources and trainings on affirming LGBTQ+ people/health needs.
• Develop and conduct an LGBTQ+ peer health advocates program.
• Facilitate LGBTQ+ cultural competency for organizations pertaining to elders.
• Facilitate LGBTQ+ cultural competency for organizations pertaining to youth.
• Develop supports for LGBTQ+ youth in foster care.
• Advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusive City policies.
• Increase LGBTQ+ visibility within the HEZ and greater Newport.
• Establish a system for community evaluation and feedback of LGBTQ+ health equity in Newport.