Health Information for LGBTQ Veterans

Sexual and gender minority Veterans have faced stigma and discrimination, which can affect health. As a healthcare institution, we need to work to make sure that Veterans with LGBT and related identities know that they are welcome at VA.

Available Health Care Services

There is an LGBT VCC at every facility to help you get the care you need. Contact the LGBT VCC at your nearest facility.

VA health care includes, among other services:

  • Hormone treatment
  • Substance use/alcohol treatment
  • Tobacco use treatment
  • Treatment and prevention of sexually transmitted infections/PrEP
  • Intimate partner violence reduction and treatment of after effects
  • Heart health
  • Cancer screening, prevention and treatment

Does my sexual orientation or gender identity matter to my health care?

As a result of stigma, stress, and discrimination, Veterans with LGBT and related identities face increased health risks and unique challenges in health care. We want you to be comfortable talking with your VA providers about all aspects of your life, so we can offer you the best care possible.

Learn about health risks and why you should talk to your provider about your sexual orientation identity, birth sex, and self-identified gender identity in the fact sheets below.

Questions

Why do you use the term “LGBT and related identities?”

Are there any providers specializing in transgender Veteran care in my area?

How do I get transition-related care at the VA?

Why are there resources being devoted to LGBT Veterans?

Information from the US Dept. of Veteran Affairs.

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