Describe the major obstacles that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender ( LGBTQ) people face in obtaining adequate health care.

Sexual minorities experience unique health disparities. The acronym LGBTQ is often used as an umbrella term, and the health needs of sexual minorities are often grouped together, although each of these groups represents a distinct population with unique health concerns. Because of challenges such as stigma, discrimination, family disapproval, social rejection, and violence, sexual minority youth were found to be at an increased risk for certain negative health outcomes. Fear of discrimination causes many LGBTQ people to avoid seeking medical care. And when they do, they are often not treated with respect or the cultural competence that they deserve. While LGBTQ community health centers have historically been a major provider of various health services, there are significant gaps.