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November 17, 2006
SGN.org
Volume 34
Issue 46
 
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Saturday, Aug 30, 2008

 

 



 
Council budget include $107,000 for LGBT health issues - Funding for training program to improve cultural competency
Council budget include $107,000 for LGBT health issues - Funding for training program to improve cultural competency
Seattle City Councilmembers Tom Rasmussen and Sally Clark announced the Council has added funding in the 2007-2008 budget to support better healthcare for the city's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) residents. More than $107,000 will go toward funding a successful agency in a competitive Request For Qualifications (RFQ) process.

The funding will provide training to healthcare and social service providers about how to effectively work with LGBT individuals.

"This is an empowering program for everyone involved," said Councilmember Sally Clark, "The LGBT community gets better healthcare treatment, healthcare professionals learn how to do their jobs better, and the staff and volunteers who do the trainings make a difference in people's lives."

For many social, cultural, and legal reasons, the needs of the LGBT people differ from the heterosexual and non-gender variant people. When healthcare providers lack awareness about the specific needs of LGBT individuals, the result is often sub-standard care. This contributes to the ongoing and significant health disparities among this population. By taking this budget action a training program will be instituted to improve mainstream health services to the LGBT community.

"LGBT seniors have higher rates of chronic illnesses, poverty and disabilities and are more dependent on the healthcare and social service systems," said Councilmember Tom Rasmussen, "The new training program will work to improve the care of the people who are fearful and vulnerable."

A Seattle City Council press release

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