Navigating LGBTQ+ care and resources
LGBTQ+ health care made easier
Whether you’re looking for a health care provider you can trust, LGBTQ+ affirming or and gender-affirming services, or help navigating the health system, we’re here to support you. Our LGBTQ+ health resources are designed to help you find the information, services, and support that fit your needs.
We also provide guidance relevant to the LGBTQ+ community, including patient rights information, medical record updates, and ways to connect with an LGBTQ+ patient navigator. We’re committed to helping you access respectful, inclusive care and support.
LGBTQ+ patient navigation
The LGBTQ+ patient navigation program helps connect people anywhere along the LGBTQ+ spectrum to routine or specialty care at Penn Medicine. Patient navigators are advocates who offer support and help guide you through the health system.
This includes finding LGBTQ+ affirming providers for any care you need, including gender-affirming health care. The navigator also works with you to make sure your records are updated to match your gender identity and pronouns and can problem-solve other issues that may come up when accessing care. For patients who are uninsured or underinsured, the patient navigator can refer you to resources for assistance.
Contact the patient navigator
If you are interested in working with the patient navigator, contact us for more information. Please be aware that the LGBTQ+ patient navigation program does not directly provide medical services, medical advice, financial assistance, transportation, or other support services outside Penn Medicine.
Phone: 215-573-8499
Email: LGBThlth@med.upenn.edu
Additional resources
Patient navigation is for non-emergency needs. If you are experiencing an emergency, dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For mental health emergencies, dial 988 or go to the nearest crisis response center.
For peer talk-lines and more crisis support, you can also call:
Trevor Project Helpline: 866-488-7386 (LGBTQ+ youth helpline)
LGBTQ+ patient rights
At Penn Medicine, you have the right to respectful, individualized care that is free from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. You can also choose who visits you and supports you throughout your care.
Frequently asked questions
You can update your preferred name at any time through MyChart by myPennMedicine or during a visit with your care team. If you’ve legally changed your name or gender marker, you can request an update to your medical records by providing the required legal documents to the Penn Medicine medical records team. Visit the Updating medical records page for step-by-step instructions.
Finding the right provider is important. Here are two ways to get started:
- On our website: You can use the Find a doctor tool located at the top of every Penn Medicine web page to search for a health care provider. Search for a specialty or service, then use the "Filters" menu to refine your results by location, gender, LGBTQ+ affirming provider, and more. Providers who are part of our Affirming Care Network will have an LGBTQ+ affirming provider badge on their profile.
- By phone: Call the Penn Medicine Patient Access Center at 800-789-7366. A representative can help connect you with an affirming provider who meets your needs.
Gender-affirming hormone therapy is available through Penn Medicine endocrinology, primary care, and other specialties. Your care team can help you understand your options and develop a treatment plan that fits your goals and health needs.
We offer a range of gender-affirming surgical services. Depending on your needs and goals, options may include chest and breast surgeries (top surgery), hysterectomy and orchiectomy procedures, facial feminization or masculinization procedures, body contouring, and voice surgery. Some procedures are offered by select surgeons or at specific locations.
Visit the Affirming health care services page for a list of available services.
Everyone deserves to feel respected, heard, and supported. If you would like to share feedback, ask a question, or raise a concern, you can contact Penn Medicine Patient and Guest Relations by phone or through a secure online form. Visit the Patient and Guest Relations page for contact information and support resources.
Our LGBTQ+ patient navigator can help answer questions, connect you with care, and guide you to the services and providers that best fit your needs.
Phone: 215-573-8499
Email: LGBThlth@med.upenn.edu
Your health information is protected by federal and state privacy laws, as well as Penn Medicine’s privacy and security policies. We take steps to safeguard your information and limit access to authorized individuals who need it to support your care. If you have privacy concerns, speak with your provider or contact the privacy office to learn more about your rights and options.
When you see the rainbow icon on a provider’s profile, it means the provider is part of the Penn Medicine LGBTQ+ Affirming Care Network through the Program for LGBTQ+ Health. Members complete ongoing training in LGBTQIA+ health and cultural humility and follow standards of care designed to support respectful, inclusive visits.
Affirming care extends beyond the provider. Practice teams also participate in training and work to improve office workflows, policies, and the care environment, helping create a welcoming, safe, and respected experience from the first interaction through ongoing care. While many Penn Medicine providers care for LGBTQ+ people, the rainbow icon helps you identify those who have completed the formal process to join the Affirming Care Network.
At Penn Medicine, we use a shared decision-making model of care with informed consent. Your care plan is developed with your provider based on your individual needs, health history, and goals.
For gender-affirming surgery, requirements vary by procedure and insurance plan. Many insurance companies require support letters for authorization. If needed, our team can help you coordinate the required documentation and guide you through the process.