Frequently asked questions, especially for our LGBTQIA2S+ patients

Can insurance companies or health care providers in Oregon discriminate against LGBTQIA2S+ patients?

No! Oregon state law bans health care discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. According to Basic Rights Oregon, “Despite these wins, many transgender Oregonians still face systemic barriers to access, as some insurance plans are exempted from state regulation, insurance company representatives often lack adequate training regarding gender-affirming care, and many insurers have lagged behind in updating their policies to comply with Oregon law. In addition, many transgender and gender-expansive Oregonians struggle to identify providers and facilities equipped to provide the affirming, responsive care that meets their needs and honors their identities.”

Will I be able to access transition-related health care?

Yes! We will work with you to identify your transition goals, review any medical risks related to your individual health and circumstance, and support you throughout your transition journey.

I identify as a lesbian./ I do not have sex with cis-men./ I only have sex with women. Am I at risk for cervical cancer? Do I need a Pap test?

Yes! That lesbians who do not have sex with men do not need Pap tests is a dangerous urban myth. Cervical cancer can affect anyone with a cervix, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. It most often occurs in people who have been exposed to certain types of a virus called human papillomavirus, or HPV. HPV can be passed from one person to another by skin-to-skin contact, such as through sexual activity. There are both low-risk and high-risk types of HPV. Low-risk HPV infections don’t develop into cancer, and the body is usually able to clear most of them by itself. But, high-risk types of HPV can stay in the body and may eventually develop into cancer. Besides infection with certain types of HPV, risk factors for cervical cancer include not getting regular cervical cancer screening, smoking, having a weakened immune system, having a chlamydia infection, eating a diet low in fruits and vegetables, and being overweight. Some other risk factors include long-term use of oral birth control, intrauterine device use, being younger than 17 at first pregnancy, or having a family history of cervical cancer.

Frequently asked questions, especially for our LGBTQIA2S+ patients

Can insurance companies or health care providers in Oregon discriminate against LGBTQIA2S+ patients?

Will I be able to access transition-related health care?

I identify as a lesbian./ I do not have sex with cis-men./ I only have sex with women. Am I at risk for cervical cancer? Do I need a Pap test?

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