Engaging LGBTQ+ People in Their Healthcare

Published on: 01/19/26

Larry Newman, DNP, AGNPPC, PMHNP, ARNP

Larry Newman is a dually certified nurse practitioner in adult/gerontological primary care and psychiatric mental health. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor Emeritus at the University of Iowa College of Nursing and currently serves the Meskwaki Nation—Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi—at the Meskwaki Tribal Health Clinic in Tama, Iowa. His clinical career has been rooted in providing equitable, inclusive care for marginalized communities, with a strong focus on addressing the social determinants of health and bridging gaps in access to culturally competent care.

Presentation Summary:

In this presentation, Larry Newman identifies key challenges such as discrimination, lack of provider training, limited access to care, and elevated risks for adverse health outcomes like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and suicide. Newman emphasizes the provider’s role in using respectful language, avoiding assumptions, and supporting LGBTQ+ patients’ intimacy and survivorship needs—particularly in the context of cancer care. He highlights the unique needs of transgender individuals, including conversations about vaginal and anal intimacy, erectile dysfunction, and pregnancy risks. By incorporating inclusive communication, affirming environments, and multidisciplinary collaboration, Newman’s presentation provides a roadmap for improving health equity and quality of life for LGBTQ+ patients.