A New Medical Clinic for the LGBTQ+ Community in Broward County
There’s a new medical clinic in Broward County that caters to a community that often feels discriminated against or judged: LGBTQ+ patients. The new LGBTQ+ clinic at Cleveland Clinic in Weston will exclusively serve their health needs.
Avoiding Stigma and Fear
“From my perspective, I want a healthcare provider that’s going to understand unique healthcare needs that are part of my culture,” Christian Trent told NBC6. He is in healthcare himself, but as a patient, he often found it difficult to connect with a doctor. Now, a new LGBTQ+ clinic at Cleveland Clinic is filling a void that many say is overdue.
A Historical Gap in Healthcare
“We opened it as an effort to provide care to a community that traditionally and historically has not been well represented in healthcare or received healthcare in adequate numbers and adequate means, basically, throughout history,” said Dr. Patrick McLendon, who is the lead provider at the new clinic.
Avoiding Discrimination
Did you know that in nine states, it is legal to refuse care to LGBTQ+ patients based on personal or religious beliefs? Florida isn’t one of them; however, many gay, lesbian, or transgender patients say they don’t feel seen or understood by their doctors.
A 2024 American Cancer Society Report
A 2024 American Cancer Society report found that LGBTQ+ people can be at higher risk for cancer because of a higher prevalence of smoking, obesity, and alcohol consumption. Recent surveys have shown LGBTQ+ people report postponing or avoiding preventative screenings because of stigma and fear. The gap and disparity is something Dr. McLendon is trying to close.
Tailored Treatment for a More Comfortable Experience
“As a physician and as a gay man, knowing that there’s that representation there in a healthcare environment is wonderful, not only for me being able to be my authentic self at work but also for our patients,” he said.
That tailored treatment brings about its own healing to patients like Trent. “This is something that we should be taking pride in, and really that this program will really provide better healthcare services to our community,” said Trent.
Location and Hours
The LGBTQ+ Clinic is on the ground level at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital, located at 3100 Weston Road, Weston, FL 33331. It will be open Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Getting an Appointment
For appointments, please call 954-659-5440 or use the Find A Doctor tool available on www.ClevelandClinicFlorida.org to search for a provider specializing in “LGBTQ+ Health.”
Conclusion
The new LGBTQ+ clinic at Cleveland Clinic in Weston is a step towards providing better healthcare services to the LGBTQ+ community. By providing a safe and welcoming environment, the clinic aims to reduce stigma and fear, and improve health outcomes for patients.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the new LGBTQ+ clinic?
A: The purpose of the new clinic is to provide healthcare services specifically tailored to the needs of the LGBTQ+ community.
Q: Who can access the clinic?
A: The clinic is open to all LGBTQ+ patients, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Q: What services does the clinic offer?
A: The clinic offers a range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, and mental health services.
Q: How can I make an appointment?
A: You can make an appointment by calling 954-659-5440 or using the Find A Doctor tool available on www.ClevelandClinicFlorida.org.
