My dual identity–I’m the “provider” in the provider-patient relationship while I’m at work, but I’m the “queer patient” to my own healthcare providers–allows me to be included as an insider in both sides of the conversation. I often hear gender and sexual minority groups discussing the ways they continue to feel excluded in all sorts of settings, and I hear providers talking about how much they want to help LGBTQ folks feel included, but feel they don’t have the tools. I’m here to tell you: we can all acquire the tools to take great care of our queer patients through education and listening.

How many providers do patients see to treat their knee pain? One? Three? Maybe their GP, an orthopedic surgeon and a physical therapist. Patients often seek treatment from many more than three providers when they have orofacial pain.