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When faced with a cancer diagnosis, LGBTQ+ patients can experience unique challenges and health disparities. With a dedication to inclusiveness and a mission to provide quality health care to all we serve, Norton Cancer Institute treats the whole person, not just the cancer.

If you are LGBTQ+, it’s important to be open and honest with your medical provider so that we can work together to meet your health needs.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation has regularly recognized Norton Cancer Institute, along with Norton Healthcare’s five Louisville hospitals, with the LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader designation, based on our approach to and practices for the LGBTQ+ community.

LGBTQ+ Risk for Cancer

LGBTQ+ patients are at a higher risk for certain types of cancers such as breast cancerlung canceranal cancer and skin cancer. Norton Healthcare provides innovative treatments to LGBTQ+ patients challenged with cancer, as well as compassion and support to their families and loved ones.

In addition, cancer screening rates may be lower in LGBTQ+ community due to past negative health care experiences. It is important to discuss appropriate cancer screening with your health care provider. Mammogramscervical cancer screening and anal Pap tests are some of the important cancer screening tests. For certain patients, lung cancer screening may be appropriate.

Smoking cessation and HPV vaccination are among the steps that can lower the risk of developing certain types of cancer.

HPV infections and cervical precancers have dropped since HPV vaccines first were used in the United States in 2006. Still, cervical cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths among women. Don’t take a risk of not being protected.

Smoking Cessation

Norton Healthcare offers free classes to help you achieve a healthy, smoke-free lifestyle. Classes follow the American Lung Association Freedom From Smoking program, proven to be effective for millions of smokers.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). HPV is not the same as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Some types of HPV can cause health issues, including genital warts and cancer. Typically, the body’s immune system fights off the virus, but some people develop a persistent infection.

The HPV vaccine can help prevent cancers and other complications associated with the virus.

HPV is the most common cause of anal cancer in men and greatly increases the risk for developing cervical cancer in patients with a cervix. HPV and other STIs can be transferred orally, anally, skin to skin and from sharing toys during sex.

Barriers to Care

Historical health care barriers for the LGBTQ+ community may have led some in the community to be reluctant about preventive screenings. Making matters worse, much of the discussion around sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has focused on heterosexual couples.

Those in the LGBTQ+ community tend to seek out cancer screenings less than heterosexuals, posing a greater risk to them and their partners.

Fewer screenings reduce opportunities to catch cancers when they are in the early stages and more easily treated.

Trust in the medical provider is a major barrier. Those in the LGBTQ+ community sometimes do not feel comfortable “coming out” to their provider out of concerns about poor treatment or judgment.

LGBTQ+ patients can find Norton Healthcare providers who have stepped forward as inclusive providers to make LGBTQ+ patients feel comfortable.

It is important that everyone we see feel included and comfortable discussing all aspects of their health. We want to be advocates and a source of information for everyone.

LGBTQ+ Cancer Care

Norton Healthcare is an inclusive cancer care provider. We believe every person has a right to the best health care experience and treatment options.

As you embark on your cancer journey, we want you to be comfortable coming out to your provider. Because LGBTQ+ patients face unique health risks, it’s important to be open with your cancer care team.

When your health care provider knows you on a more personal level, they can help identify and recommend screening or treatment options and plans based on your personal needs and goals. Your provider is here to be an advocate and resource for all aspects of your mental and physical health.

We offer multidisciplinary oncology care from specialists at the leading edge of cancer treatment.

Getting cancer treatment should be convenient. We strive to make it as easy as possible with:

  • Nine outpatient locations
  • Four radiation centers
  • Multiple infusion centers
  • Same-day appointments for new patients

Leading-edge Care and Research

  • Regional leader in cancer research: With access to over 170 clinical trials, patients can join locally many of the same leading-edge studies that are available at larger centers. We are a research destination with enrolled patients who come from over 20 different U.S. states and two foreign countries.
  • Specialized expertise leading innovation: Our board-certified and fellowship-trained oncologists are subspecialized, allowing them to lead the way in advancing cancer treatment through innovative clinical trials and groundbreaking research.
  • We’re here when you need us: With same- or next-day appointments for newly diagnosed patients, valet parking and multiple locations across Kentucky and Southern Indiana, access to quality oncology care is our top priority.
  • Highly specialized testing and precision medicine: Our state-of-the-art Norton Cancer Institute Genomics Lab offers highly specialized testing that makes it possible to diagnose and treat cancer more precisely and to tailor advanced treatments based on a tumor’s specific genetic composition.
  • One-stop shop for care: Multidisciplinary care settings allow patients to schedule appointments with multiple specialists across Norton Healthcare on the same day and in the same location, making your cancer care more convenient and streamlined. This often saves patients the hassle of scheduling multiple appointments and planning for extra travel time.
  • Highly accredited: Norton Cancer Institute is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, and the American College of Radiology.

Care Designed With You in Mind

  • Robust support services: With five Norton Cancer Institute Resource Centers throughout Louisville and Southern Indiana, a patient navigator program, Behavioral Oncology Program, classes and events, art and music therapy, genetic counseling, nutrition services, financial counseling and more, our support team cares not just for the body, but the person within.
  • Insurance coverage: Medicare, Medicaid and most major commercial insurance plans are accepted.
  • Specialty pharmacy services: At Norton Specialty Pharmacy, patients receive regular consultations on their medications and treatment plan, making sure they get their prescriptions quickly and accurately. Our specialty pharmacists collaborate closely with your oncology team.
  • Ease of communication with your care team: Use your free Norton MyChart account to communicate with your provider, view appointments, refill prescriptions, get on the waitlist for an earlier appointment and more, anytime from a mobile device or computer
  • The Norton Healthcare Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Norton Healthcare’s not-for-profit adult-care services, continuously supports the purchase of new equipment, programs, education and funding of research to ensure our patients stay up to date with medical advances and technology.

Awards and Accreditations

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