Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). National LGBT Health Education Center
Topic: Inclusive Language and Culture
Population Focus: Criminal Justice Involved LGBTQ, LGBTQ Adults, LGBTQ Elders, LGBTQ Military Service Members, LGBTQ Youth, Racially/Ethnically Diverse LGBTQ, Rural LGBTQ, Transgender and Gender Nonconforming
Language is powerful and influences many of our interactions. As a health care provider, becoming familiar with terms used by LGBT communities can help provide patients with the highest quality care. This glossary does not have every term used by the community, but includes terms most commonly used when patients are accessing health care. It is important to keep in mind that language can change over time, and so this glossary will be updated periodically to reflect those changes.