Being part of the LGBTQ community comes with its own unique set of challenges. We sometimes face stigma and stereotypes that can leave us feeling like outsiders in a predominantly heterosexual society. For many, going to the doctor is already an intimidating experience regardless of your sexuality or gender expression — the anxiety surrounding healthcare issues is such a common fear.
For queer individuals, the added concern of being misunderstood or the personal nature of talking about some unique health issues that come with who we are can make it even more uncomfortable. Everyone deserves to have their healthcare needs treated in a place where they don’t have to fear being themselves. That is why LGBTQ- affirming healthcare spaces are so important. They don’t just meet our specific health needs. They help create a safer, more inclusive community.
Jefferson Pride Care in Haddonfield is a standout example of inclusive healthcare done right. Their providers are members of the LGBTQ community and are passionate about delivering excellent care tailored to our unique needs. With a wide range of services under one roof, including top surgery for transgender individuals, hormone therapy, and PrEP and PEP for HIV prevention, they prioritize treatments that directly support the community. As part of the Jefferson Health network, they also offer the added benefit of being connected to a larger system with locations throughout the Philadelphia and South Jersey area, ensuring access to high-quality care.
For those a bit farther east of Philadelphia, the Virtua Pride Primary Care office in Marlton could be an excellent option. This openly affirming practice welcomes patients of all backgrounds, races, gender identities, and sexualities without prejudice. Their providers are committed to delivering culturally competent, trauma-informed care to every person who walks through their doors.
As they explain, “Having an openly LGBTQ affirming medical practice makes a huge difference for queer individuals because it creates a space where patients can feel genuinely safe, seen, and respected. Too often, queer people experience adversity in healthcare settings, from subtle bias to blatant discrimination.”
At Virtua Pride Primary Care, walking through the door means more than just being another patient. Compassion and inclusivity are at the heart of everything their providers do. They foster an environment rooted in understanding, affirmation, and genuine celebration of identity.
For queer individuals seeking mental health services, this practice offers a safe and welcoming space. Their full range of counseling and treatment options ensures that the same affirming care provided for physical health extends to psychological well-being.
Members of the LGBTQ community often face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges than their straight peers.
Many primary care physicians are LGBTQ friendly, but that information isn’t advertised or readily available. The medical director of Cooper’s Center for LGBTQ+ Health in Collingswood, Dr. Justin Schweitzer, has been named a Castle Connolly Top LGBTQ+ Doctor, one of only 64 physicians in the United States to achieve this distinction.
If you’re searching for a medical provider, or if you don’t feel comfortable with your current one because of your identity, consider making an appointment at one of these affirming practices. Healthcare should never feel like a chore or an experience where you’re not treated with respect. As a patient, you deserve to feel seen, valued and safe.
jeffersonhealth.org/locations/pride-care
go.virtua.org/pride-primary-care
cooperhealth.org/services/cooper-proud-lgbtq-healt
