Today’s 5-minute report will be dedicated to LGBTQIA+.
In the following 5 minutes you’ll learn:
- Introduction: Why This Matters
- Trends: What Opportunities Are There?
- Startups: Who’s Innovating?
So let’s dive right in!
Introduction: Why this matters
Everyone has a right to good health and healthcare regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. While for most of us, there’s a presumption that medical care will be delivered in a non-judgmental and safe way, for many members of the LGBTQIA+ community, this is not the case.
Currently there is a lack of consideration in public health efforts of the perspectives and needs of LGBTQIA+ people, which needs to change in order to eliminate health disparities. In addition to considering the needs of LGBTQIA+, there is also a need for culturally competent care and prevention services that are specific to this population.
Transgender and non-binary people often face barriers to healthcare from scarcity of facilities, to insurance company denials to outright discrimination.
Challenges and Opportunities
In a recent survey by the Center of American Progress 14% of LGBTQ people report that they have had a doctor show visible discomfort due to their identity, 8% have experienced harsh language; 7% unwanted physical contact. 25% report having postponed or avoided treatment after facing discrimination.
According to the survey:
- Due to cost, many LGBTQIA+ Americans have found it hard to get necessary medical care in the past year
- Many LGBTQIA+ Americans did not pursue medical treatment due to discrimination
- Transgender individuals face unique obstacles when accessing healthcare
- LGBTQIA+ Americans have experienced significant mental health issues related to COVID-19
In order to address the challenges faced by this population new models are needed, that address the needs and preferences of LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Opportunities:
Startups: Who’s Innovating
- Affirming Virtual Care
- Affirming Mental Health Services
- Services for Transgender Youth
- Prosthetics
- Family Creation Services
Folx ($29.4M)
Folx Health is a digital-native health platform designed specifically for the Queer Community.
Plume ($14M)
Plume provides online access to HRT for the trans-community at the touch of a button from the comfort and safety of home.
Included Health ($2.3M)
Included Health is a comprehensive health platform partnering with employers to connect LGBTQ+ members to culturally competent, quality providers who understand the unique needs of the community.
LVNDR
LVNDR is giving LGBTQ+ people equal access to healthcare
Violet
Find and book queer-competent mental health providers
Luvie
Luvie is on a mission to connect LGBTIA+ individuals to a qualified community of support, knowledge, and resources so that they can thrive in their health, body, and sexuality.
Queerly
Health tech startup bridging the gap between the LGBTQIA+ community and safe, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare providers.
QSPACES
QSPACES helps users find a LGBTQIA++ friendly doctor or therapist.
Lighthouse
Lighthouse helps LGBTQIA+ individuals find healthcare professionals who are right for you.
MyTransHealth ($30K)
MyTransHealth helps trans people get access to quality healthcare.
Woven Bodies
Woven Bodies is an inclusive digital practice supporting queer folks & allies from family planning through parenthood.
Helsa Helps ($30K)
Helsa Helps' platform helps LGBTQIA+ people learn about their mental wellbeing and uses proprietary matching technology to connect LGBTQIA+ people to the therapists that are most qualified to support them.
