This week, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released its 2012 LGBT Report, which highlights improvements and steps taken by HHS to address health issues faced by LGBT Americans, including discrimination and disparities.[1] The report also outlines goals and next steps to continue progress in the LGBT community. Among the highlights are initiatives by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide outreach and education to health care providers, surveyors, long-term care facilities, and local governments on the unique needs of the LGBT patient population as well as best practices. These efforts are good news as advocates continue to work with HHS and providers to ensure LGBT Americans receive quality care across all settings.
CMA to Host LGBT and Medicare Webinar
Older LGBT individuals and families face special challenges at the intersection of health, law, and aging. Medicare plays a critical role in their care, but issues including spousal recognition and stigma in institutional settings complicate their care. The Center for Medicare Advocacy will host a special webinar that addresses these issues and more. Local advocates, attorneys, providers, and families will find unique and useful information and gain tools to empower their advocacy. To sign up, please visit: https://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/777/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=72138. Deadline for registration is noon on Monday June 25, 2012.
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[1] 2012 LGBT Report, HHS, found at http://www.hhs.gov/secretary/about/lgbthealth_objectives_2012.html.