LGBT Needs Assessment Confirms the Disparities Faced by Transgender and Gender Nonconforming People

The 2015 "LGBT Health & Human Services Needs in New York State" (Needs Assessment) conducted by Strength in Numbers Consulting Group (SiNCG) for The New York State LGBT Health & Human Services Network (The Network) confirmed that LGBT New Yorkers, especially transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) people, often seek support through local community organizations to overcome the major barriers they face in accessing their basic needs.

Nearly 1 in 4 of the respondents were TGNC, with over 3 in 5 of them reporting that insurance not covering transition-related care, such as hormone therapy, was a "somewhat" or "major" barrier to care. The study also reported that TGNC people in New York State are about twice as likely to experience food insecurity as non-TGNC survey respondents.

"The 'LGBT Health & Human Services Needs in New York State' study outcomes support the AIDS Institute's funded priorities and efforts to address identified needs within the LGBT community," said Johanne Morne, Director of the AIDS Institute at the New York State Department of Health. "Considering that nearly half of the TGNC respondents were young people, the study underscores the work that we must do together to ensure New Yorkers -- regardless of age and gender identity -- are able to feel safe and supported in all settings, including our schools, and have access to affordable health care and services that comprehensively address their needs."

The Needs Assessment confirms the fundamental role LGBT-specific local community organizations play in empowering community members to overcome these barriers, with over 80% of respondents having visited a local LGBT community organization in the previous year.

"This study reinforces how vital local community organizations and our services are to helping LGBT folks meet their basic needs," said Glennda Testone, Executive Director of The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center (The Center), which administers The Network. "The Needs Assessment gives us crucial data to support the case for continued and expanded programs that help LGBT people live the healthy lives they deserve."

The "LGBT Health & Human Services Needs in New York State" study is generously supported by the New York Department of Health's AIDS Institute and The Network's member organizations.

Detailed information on disparities across other demographics, such as racial and ethnic backgrounds, the life course and geography are also included in the study. The full text of the Needs Assessment is available here.