Inova Health System
June is Pride Month and Inova Health System chose to celebrate by opening the region's first dedicated medical clinic designed specifically to serve the needs of for the LGBTQ+ residents.
The Inova Pride Clinic at 500 North Washington St. in Falls Church, will serve as a primary care clinic with an emphasis on the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ community in a safe, respectful and compassionate environment, the health company announced earlier this month.
“As a leader in health equity, and with Inova Fairfax Hospital recently designated as a LGBTQ+ Healthcare Top Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, Inova has long embraced innovative approaches to bridge gaps in healthcare,” said J. Stephen Jones, MD, President and CEO of Inova. “We know many LGBTQ+ patients are at greater risk for health issues because of a lack of regular healthcare in an environment where they feel respected and comfortable. The Inova Pride Clinic will ensure inclusive and judgment-free care, and supporting long-term health and wellness – without barriers.”
Led by Dr. Jorge Ramallo, who is board certified in internal medicine and pediatrics and a member of the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) and the American Academy of HIV Medicine (AAHIVM), the Pride Clinic’s team of clinicians will bring their expertise in addressing the unique health needs of this community, such as gender affirming care, HIV prevention, adolescent health, STI treatment and prevention, and mental health.
“In any part of healthcare, it’s critical that we meet patients where they are,” said Dr. Ramallo. “The sad truth is that many LGBTQ+ patients have encountered some form of discrimination in a healthcare setting in their lifetime, which has made doctor visits stressful and avoidable for many. By creating a dedicated medical home, we can help encourage members of this community to get the care they need.”
For more information on the Inova Pride Clinic, visit www.inova.org/prideclinic.
In addition, this month, Inova announced it has awarded $1 million in Health Equity Grants to 23 Northern Virginia nonprofit organizations, the largest level of funding to date for this grants program. Several of the receiving nonprofit organizations were here in Alexandria, including ACT for Alexandria, Arm & Arm, the Capital Youth Empowerment Program, Nueva Vida and SCAN of Northern Virginia. The grants were awarded to organizations whose initiatives aim to improve health equity and support under-resourced communities with unmet healthcare needs.
