The city Health and Hospitals Corporation (H+H), which operates public health institutions citywide, is continuing to offer a number of sexual health services during the coronavirus pandemic, including access to gender-affirming care for transgender and gender non-conforming New Yorkers and PrEP for sexually active folks at risk for HIV transmission.
The services, which are being provided via H+H/ Gotham Health Judson’s Pride Health Center, feature gender-affirming care, including hormone therapy; testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections; emergency contraception and birth control; PrEP and PEP; urgent gynecologist needs; pregnancy testing and counseling; and mental health support.
Those services, usually delivered out of 34 Spring Street, have been temporarily moved to Gotham Health, Gouverneur at 227 Madison Street, between Jefferson and Clinton Streets on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, but those seeking the services must first call 212-925-5000 to speak with a nurse in their primary language to discuss medical or mental health needs. After choosing the preferred language, press 3 to speak to a nurse. If appropriate, an appointment with a healthcare provider will then be scheduled.
The healthcare offerings are being targeted to those between the ages of 13 and 35, though individuals of all ages are welcome to seek the medical care.
The options are necessary at a time when many non-profit organizations and service providers that have long supplied such services shut down their in-person operations in March due to COVID-19, placing a strain on marginalized communities.
“As COVID-19 reached the US, NYC Health + Hospitals was committed to providing the healthcare New Yorkers needed, at the right time and the right setting to ensure their safety,” Michelle Lewis, CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals/ Gotham Health, said in a written statement. “As New Yorkers experience a reduction of some healthcare services due to the Coronavirus pandemic, NYC Health + Hospitals understands the importance of continuing to reach LGBTQ communities.”
H+H stresses that its mission is to provide quality care to New Yorkers regardless of their ability to pay, but that doesn’t necessarily mean services are free. The costs could vary depending on factors such as health insurance. The H+H website has a feature allowing individuals to check whether their insurance is accepted.
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