LGBTQ+ community health fair in Bay Shore connects Long Islanders with care and support services
Free event hosted by the New York LGBT Network helped Long Islanders learn about healthcare providers, support programs and affirming services.
More Stories
Long Islanders connected with healthcare providers, support services and community resources during a free community health fair hosted by the New York LGBT Network in Bay Shore.
Attendees said the event introduced them to services they were previously unaware of and taught them about healthcare options available in their communities.
"Walking in here, I've already learned of new resources I've never heard of before," said Ryan Reed of Hauppauge.
Organizers said events like the health fair can help connect people with care. The event comes as research highlights barriers that many LGBTQ+ individuals face when seeking healthcare.
According to KFF, a health policy organization, nearly six in 10 LGBTQ+ Americans delay needed medical care, and one in three report unfair treatment by healthcare providers.
"Offering these services today, we know LGBT people are more likely to access affirming services and maintain their long-term health," said Robert Vitelli, CEO of the New York LGBT Network.
A survey conducted by KFF found that 58% of LGBTQ+ adults skipped medical care in the past year, while 29% said their health worsened because they postponed or went without care.
For Georgie Hartman of South Huntington, the event offered a more comfortable setting for people seeking answers about their health needs.
"Sometimes people are apprehensive about going or they are afraid. Here, a lot of those questions could be answered. I think it would be more comfortable here than walking into a regular doctor's office," Hartman said.
For some attendees, the event also provided a way to connect with services close to home.
"For me it is really important to get connected with all the social services around me. Even as an LGBTQ individual, I think it is amazing to meet with our community providers," Reed said.
Healthcare and mental health providers who participated in the event said the fair helps connect residents with resources they may not otherwise know about.
"We're looking to support the community. Mental Health is a big piece especially here on Long Island for children and adults. I think it is a great resource for people in the LGBT community. They don't have that many resources on Long Island," said Jaymes Blair, a psychotherapist with Paniccia Psychotherapy & Counseling.
