How to Advocate for Yourself in Healthcare Settings

Accessing healthcare can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to find providers who understand, respect, and affirm your identity, your family, and your lived experiences. Whether you’re looking for reproductive healthcare, LGBTQ+ affirming providers, community resources, or tools to help you advocate for yourself in healthcare settings, Our Family Coalition (OFC) is here to help.

We recognize that every person’s healthcare journey is unique. Many LGBTQ+ individuals, families, and communities. Particularly those who have experienced discrimination or systemic barriers. Face additional challenges when seeking care. Everyone deserves healthcare that is safe, inclusive, culturally responsive, and centered on dignity and respect.

This resource hub was created to make navigating healthcare a little easier. Here you’ll find LGBTQ+ affirming providers, reproductive health referrals, self-advocacy tools, and connections to trusted community organizations across the Bay Area. Whether you’re searching for a new provider, exploring reproductive health options, or looking for additional support, we hope these resources help you access the care you deserve.

Because healthcare resources and community partnerships continue to evolve, we regularly update this page to provide the most current information available. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact our Programs Team—we’re here to help connect you with the resources that best meet your needs.

Trust Your Own Knowledge

While healthcare providers bring expertise in medicine, you are the expert on your own body, experiences, and needs. If something doesn’t feel right, trust yourself and communicate your concerns. Phrases to lean on:

“This is not normal for my body”
“I have never experienced these symptoms before now”

Advocate for Comprehensive Explanations

You have the right to fully understand any diagnosis, treatment, or procedure. Don’t hesitate to ask for explanations that make sense to you. For instance, say: “Can you walk me through how this treatment will work?” or “What are some possible side effects?” “What should I look out for?”

Right to Informed Consent

You have the right to understand all aspects of your care, including the risks, benefi ts, and alternatives. Never feel pressured into any procedure without clear information.

Affirm Your Right to Take Time and Make Decisions

Confidentiality Protections

HIPAA laws safeguard your privacy and health information. Healthcare providers must keep all your personal health information confidential.

Anti-Discrimination Protections

Federal laws like Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act prohibit discrimination in healthcare on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), age, or disability.

Pause & Reflect

If you’re unsure about a treatment recommendation, it’s okay to take a pause. Say something like, “I’d like to take some time to consider this before making a decision.” This gives you the space to process without feeling pressured. You can discuss a timeline with your provider that works for you. It is okay to want more time.

Ask About Alternatives

You’re entitled to know if there are other options that might work for you. If a provider presents a single course of action, ask, “Are there other ways to approach this?” or “What other treatments might be possible?” or “Why are you recommending this treatment plan compared to alternative options?”