Overview
When you come to Cleveland Clinic hospitals in Florida, we make sure you always receive the quality care you deserve. Our healthcare providers are committed to providing a safe and supportive healthcare experience; some of our team have taken additional steps to specialize in treating members of the LGBTQ+ community. And we do it in a judgment-free environment.
It can be stressful to find healthcare providers you trust and connect with. Maybe you’ve had negative healthcare experiences in the past. Or perhaps you’ve heard friends’ stories of struggling to find supportive care. National research has shown LGBTQ+ individuals may feel wary about seeking medical care. This has contributed to:
- Patients who are more likely to delay medical care
- Lesbian women who are more likely to forego cancer screenings
- Gay men and transgender patients who are at higher risk of sexually transmitted infections such as HIV
- LGBTQ+ individuals finding themselves at a higher risk of dependency on alcohol, tobacco or drugs
- LGBTQ+ youth who are more likely to have mental health conditions like depression or anxiety
- Older LGBTQ+ individuals who are at higher risk of being socially isolated
Our team is committed to creating a safe, confidential space where you can count on receiving respectful and dignified care. Many of our LBGTQ+ healthcare providers have had extensive training and education in this area. And we all take a truly caring approach to every appointment.
We want you to feel comfortable, heard and understood when it comes to every aspect of your healthcare journey. We’ve got you covered — whether you’re looking for a new primary care provider or need support for unexpected or ongoing health conditions.
Healthcare Equality Index
In 2024, the following Cleveland Clinic hospitals in Florida participated in the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) and achieved “Leader” in Healthcare Equality status:
- Cleveland Clinic Indian River
- Martin North Hospital
- Martin South Hospital
- Tradition Hospital
- Weston Hospital
The foundation used the index benchmarks to evaluate Cleveland Clinic hospitals in Florida for this ranking. We received our designation after a close examination of our policies and practices related to equity and inclusion of LGBTQ+ patients, visitors and employees.
Lesbian and Bisexual Women’s Health
If you’re lesbian, bisexual or a woman who has sex with women (WSW), you’ll want to schedule the same routine care as your heterosexual counterparts. Skipping recommended regular screenings and checkups may result in:
- Increased risk of breast and reproductive cancers
- Higher levels of tobacco use (nicotine dependence) and substance use disorder
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Higher rates of mental health conditions like depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Routine and Specialty Care Just for You
Cleveland Clinic hospitals in Florida provide comprehensive primary and specialty care to meet your needs, whether you need an annual checkup or want to address something more complicated. We make sure you feel comfortable, safe and respected at every appointment.
Primary care
Establishing a relationship with a primary care provider you trust is vital. It can help you stay on top of your health and take preventive measures. From routine screenings to managing chronic conditions, our physicians will provide the healthcare support you need, including:
- Pelvic exams
- Mammograms
- Heart disease screening
- Colon cancer screening
Specialty Care
We have all the specialty providers and care you need — when you need them.
Gay and Bisexual Men’s Health
If you’re gay, bisexual or a man who has sex with men (MSM), it’s important to schedule the same routine care as your heterosexual counterparts. Skipping screenings and vital check-ins with your primary care providers may:
- Increase your risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Raise the chance you may smoke, use other nicotine products or develop another substance use disorder
- Increase your risk of having certain kinds of cancer
- Create a risk of social isolation, especially if you’re older or MSM
- Pose a greater chance that you develop mental health conditions like anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts
Personalized Routine and Specialty Care
Cleveland Clinic hospitals in Florida provide a wide range of routine and specialty services designed to meet your needs. We’re here to help you feel safe, comfortable and understood at every appointment.
- Primary Care. A family or primary care physician can provide routine health screenings, prostate exams, immunizations and chronic disease management.
- Specialty Care. We have all the specialty providers and care you need — when you need them.
Gender-Affirming Services
If you’re transgender or non-binary, you’ll want to find knowledgeable healthcare providers who are gender-affirming and caring. And you likely want to see someone you trust.
We’re committed to providing confidential and compassionate gender-affirming care that focuses on helping you feel like your best self. Our team has all the providers you need to move toward better physical, emotional and mental health. We’re also here to help you explore gender-affirmation surgeries and treatments if you’re ready to take that step.
Learn more about the Gender Affirming Services we provide.
Appointments
Request an appointment online or call 877.463.2010 to schedule.
Cleveland Clinic believes you deserve a safe, respectful environment when you come to us for care. We want you to feel heard and understood. That’s why our team includes providers who have specific interests in all areas of LGBTQ+ healthcare. We’re here for you.
