Asia Sullivan, PA-C, has had a longstanding relationship with Eko. We're proud to partner with her as she serves LGBTQ+ communities with dedication and expertise. In her own words below, Asia discusses health advances in LGBTQ+ care, and the inequities that patients often face.
"One of the most critical aspects of providing LGBTQ+ care is ensuring that patients feel accepted and understood from the moment they walk through the door."
Pride Month is a time of celebration and reflection for the LGBTQ+ community. But for healthcare providers who serve this community, it’s also a moment to highlight both the progress and the persistent challenges in LGBTQ+ care.
As a Physician Associate in Los Angeles I’ve dedicated my career to supporting the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. My journey in healthcare has revealed unique challenges that require continuous attention, effort, and dedication to learning from my colleagues — and especially from my patients.
Overcoming hurdles in LGBTQ+ healthcare
Identifying as lesbian and being from rural Alabama, I’ve experienced firsthand the stark differences in how LGBTQ+ individuals are treated in various parts of the country, especially when seeking healthcare. Moving to Los Angeles and starting my career in an LGBTQ-focused primary care practice was a breath of fresh air. It allowed me to embrace my identity fully and provide care in an environment where acceptance is the norm. But even in a progressive city, there are hurdles that both patients and providers must overcome.
One of the most critical aspects of providing LGBTQ+ care is ensuring that patients feel accepted and understood from the moment they walk through the door. At my clinic we make it a point to ask patients about their preferred name, sex assigned at birth versus gender identity, and pronouns on the intake forms before they even reach a receptionist or nurse. We never want patients to feel that they have to “come out” to their providers but rather can feel free to be themselves immediately. This proactive approach fosters a safe and welcoming environment, which is essential for effective healthcare.
Patients often seek us out specifically for this reason knowing we're attuned to their unique needs and challenges. Being an 'out' provider also helps break down barriers, allowing patients to feel more comfortable and confident that their issues will be heard and understood. I know from personal experience that disclosing your sexual orientation or gender identity to a healthcare worker who may have already made assumptions about you can be awkward, stressful, and embarrassing.
"I always tell friends, patients, and my social media followers not to settle when it comes to their healthcare. If you’re unable to find a queer-friendly, knowledgeable provider in your area, turn to the internet!"
Telemedicine’s role in expanding access to LGBTQ+ care
We’re lucky to accept patients from all over California, the United States, and even a few international patients via telemedicine which has exploded in popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients who previously drove hours or even flew in to see us can now be served in the comfort of their own homes. I always tell friends, patients, and my social media followers not to settle when it comes to their healthcare. If you’re unable to find a queer-friendly, knowledgeable provider in your area, turn to the internet!
Innovations in HIV prevention & treatment
A major focus of my practice is the treatment and prevention of HIV, along with combating misinformation about other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the LGBTQ+ community. Services like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) are crucial in preventing HIV, yet they're underutilized due to misconceptions about their complexity. In reality, these regimens are straightforward and highly effective.
New injectable options for HIV treatment and prevention hit the market in 2021, changing the landscape forever. Cabenuva, a long-acting injectable for the treatment of HIV, and Apretude, an injectable form of PrEP, offer patients convenient alternatives to daily medication. These innovations can significantly improve adherence and outcomes for those who need it.
Respecting LGBTQ+ patients in healthcare communication
Our approach to STI screening is comprehensive, recognizing that traditional screening methods often miss critical sites of infection. When it comes to taking a sexual history and discussing STIs, we strive to communicate openly, honestly, and using terminology that the community uses, not confusing medical jargon.
"The language we use in healthcare also matters greatly. It’s vital to stay updated on appropriate terminology and avoid outdated or stigmatizing language."
The language we use in healthcare also matters greatly. It’s vital to stay updated on appropriate terminology and avoid outdated or stigmatizing language. An example of an easy change in terminology that any healthcare worker can make is to say “patient living with HIV” instead of “HIV positive patient,” as we never want to reduce a patient to their diagnosis — they’re so much more than that.
Making comprehensive care accessible
Hormone management for transgender patients is another big part of our practice and an often misunderstood area of medicine. Many providers view it as a complex and daunting task that must be managed by specialists, but with proper training, any primary care provider can competently offer these services. Unfortunately medical schools often gloss over queer healthcare, leaving gaps in knowledge that providers must fill through self-education, ongoing professional development, and learning from patients themselves who have a wealth of knowledge about their own needs and care.
Tools & practices that promote inclusivity
At my clinic we use the High Polish Rainbow 3M™ Littmann® CORE Digital Stethoscope, featured here, which symbolizes our commitment to visibility and inclusivity.
This state-of-the-art tool enhances our ability to provide high-quality care and connects with our patients on a personal level.
We love to record their heart and lung sounds and play them back in the Eko App. It’s a fun and simple icebreaker and helps build rapport with patients. So many people have never actually heard their own heart sounds!
The future of healthcare inclusivity
Inclusivity in healthcare is not just about policies and procedures; it’s about the people. As a visible and openly queer provider, I hope to inspire others in the medical field to embrace and support LGBTQ+ patients fully. By sharing my experiences on social media and mentoring pre-med and pre-PA students, I aim to show that one’s sexuality should not hinder their professional success. More importantly, I want patients to know they deserve excellent care from providers who genuinely respect and understand them.
While significant strides have been made in LGBTQ+ healthcare, many challenges remain. It’s up to dedicated providers to continue pushing for inclusive, comprehensive, and compassionate care for all. As we celebrate Pride Month, let’s also commit to addressing these challenges head on, ensuring that every patient receives the care and respect they deserve.
See Asia's Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and website for more insights on navigating LGBTQ+ healthcare.
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