LAS VEGAS (KLAS)– Many things have changed for LGBTQ members of the military, but finding quality health care is still a struggle for some. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Southern Nevada (VA) is hoping to change that with a first-of-its-kind program offered at its North Las Vegas Medical Center.
The VA launched The Diversity PACT, an LGBTQ-focused patient-aligned primary care team, in June. The team behind it has reported a tremendous response so far and hopes it will become a model for other VA facilities.
“It’ll be a safe space for patients to come to where they don’t feel stigmatized, they feel like they’re safe and taken care of,” Dr. Kelly Thibert, the primary care physician for the program, said.
Dr. Thibert shared that as a member of the community herself, this cause is something she is deeply passionate about.
“I myself have had experiences that I don’t want my patients to experience,” she said.
The program can serve 110 people, and the hope is to expand when that need is met.
Lead nurse Teresa Hanshew, who spearheaded the creation of this team, expressed that helping others is her passion.
“We were used as an example of why we were kicked out of the military. Then Don’t Ask Don’t Tell came, and we were still kicked out of the military. So a lot of us didn’t come to the VA because we didn’t feel safe,” Hanshew said.
As a veteran, a health care professional and part of the LGBTQ+ community, Hanshew said it is long overdue and the response has been tremendous.
Dr. Thibert said it is a one-stop shop with specific providers for specific needs. The clinic includes dedicated nurses, social workers, a behavioral health clinician, and a whole health coach.
Hanshew and Dr. Thibert said they hope veterans who previously left the VA will return knowing everyone is welcome.
“Having this program is everything,” Hanshew said.
Clinic hours are offered on Tuesdays. New patients can schedule an appointment through the VA while existing patients can consult their provider for a referral.
