Challenging heterosexism in college health service delivery

The empowerment and affirmation of lesbian, bisexual, and gay students is long overdue. This article explores how human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), substance abuse, violence and hate-related crimes, suicide, and heterosexism all adversely affect the physical and emotional health of nonheterosexual college students. College health services must expand their current scope and practice and assume a leadership role in combating all forms of oppression by actively incorporating and addressing the unique health issues and needs of the lesbian, bisexual, and gay population. This article provides a brief overview of the relevant healthcare issues for lesbians, bisexuals, and gays; examples of heterosexism in college health services; and recommendations for institutional and personal and professional change.