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LGBTQ+ refers to lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-identifying identities. The ‘Q’ refers to queer identities, as well as those who are questioning their sexual orientation and/or sexual

identity. The + sign is meant to be inclusive of sexual orientations and sexual identities beyond LGBT, including pansexual, asexual, sexual non-conforming, sexually diverse, nonbinary,

sexually neutral and other identities. Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System seeks to promote the health, welfare, and dignity of LGBTQ+ Veterans and their families. We are committed to

making sensitive and high-quality health care accessible. Our employees are prepared to provide personalized, patient-centered care in a safe, affirming, and welcoming environment. CARE WE

PROVIDE AT VA CHARLESTON HEALTH CARE Our LGBTQ+ Veteran care coordinators can answer your questions, advocate for your right to quality care, handle complaints or concerns you have about

your care, and help you get started with any of our services for LGBTQ+ Veterans. These include: * Hormone therapy in limited circumstances * Mental health services * Testing, counseling,

and care for HIV and sexually transmitted infections, including PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) and PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) for Veterans at risk for HIV * Other prevention,

screening, wellness, and testing services POLICIES AND PRACTICES TO KNOW The care coordinator can help you get started with care or with navigating any of these issues. VISITATION: A

same-sex partner, family member, friend, or other individual can be present with the patient for emotional support during the course of the patient's stay. DEFINITION OF FAMILY: 

"Family" may include individual(s) not legally related to the individual. Family members include spouses, domestic partners, different-sex and same-sex significant others. ADVANCE

DIRECTIVES: Veterans may designate any person as a decision-maker for care if they won't be able to make these decisions themselves. This includes same-sex partners. Advance directive

agents are chosen by the Veteran and do not need to be biologically related. DOCUMENTATION IN MEDICAL RECORDS: VA Charleston maintains the confidentiality of information about sexual

orientation, sexual behavior, and sexual identity, just like any other private health information.