Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Services

Who We Are

The New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute's Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Services supports service providers to develop and/or enhance comprehensive health and human services for LGBTQ individuals, families, and communities through the implementation of proven strategies and innovative interventions.

Office Goals

  • Address the expansive spectrum of health equity and disparities facing LGBTQ individuals, ensuring the availability of financial resources and their equitable distribution.
  • Increase access to and improve the quality and appropriateness of health and human services beyond HIV prevention and care.​
  • Improve health outcomes and quality of life for LGBTQ individuals, communities and families.
  • Enhance capacity of organizations and service providers to offer welcoming and affirming services with humility and competence.

What We Do

In addition to support regional and statewide LGBTQ programs, the Office of LGBTQ Services also:

  • Advises and consults with other state agencies on LGBTQ-related issues and research
  • Provides administrative oversight to the Transgender Clinical Scholars Program
  • Consults on state budget and legislative matters that may impact LGBTQ New Yorkers
  • Serves as the primary point of contact and subject matter expert on LGBTQ health and well-being for New York State Department of Health

For more information, please contact us at LGBTHEALTH@health.ny.gov

Know your Rights!

LGBTQ New Yorkers are protected from discrimination based on sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation. For more information, click the links below:

Resources and Support

HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing

The New York State Department of Health's HIV/AIDS and STI Testing page provides information on confidential testing options, including site locations across the state. It also shares helpful details on what to know before getting tested and what to do after receiving an HIV test result.

  • Visit the Testing page to learn more and take the next step in protecting your health!

The H-Line / NY HIV Hotline

The New York State HIV/STI/HCV Hotline offers education, risk-reduction information, and referrals for HIV, STIs, and Hepatitis C. New Yorkers can also request free condoms and other safer sex supplies.

  • Connect with a trained navigator by phone at 1-800-541-2437 (English) or 1-800-233-7432 (Spanish) or use the online chat for support. Reach out today and take charge of your sexual health!

Provider Directory

The New York State Department of Health's AIDS Institute Provider Directory is a publicly available tool where you can search for healthcare providers who offer services like HIV care, hepatitis C treatment, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, and more.

Whether you are looking for testing, treatment, or prevention services, the directory can help you find the right provider near you.

Reproductive Health

The New York State Reproductive Health page provides information on how to access safe, effective contraception and family planning services across the state. It also provides details on your options for both medication and in-clinic abortion care.

Abortion is safe, legal, and available to all New Yorkers. Everyone has the right to access these services, regardless of age, gender identity, immigration status, or insurance coverage.

PrEP/PEP

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

The New York State Department of Health's Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) page provides up-to-date information on how PrEP can help prevent HIV. You will find a directory of participating providers, details on approved medications, and payment options, including available assistance programs and insurance options.

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

The New York State Department of Health's Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) page offers essential information on how to prevent HIV after a possible exposure. The page includes a directory of providers who offer PEP, details on approved medications, and step-by-step guidance on when and how to start treatment.

New York State Offices and Agencies

Office of Sexual Health and Epidemiology

The New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute's Office of Sexual Health and Epidemiology is committed to promoting the sexual health of all New Yorkers. The site provides trusted information on STIs, including available treatments and medication to help prevent bacterial infections. You will also find up-to-date statewide data on STI trends and overall sexual health. Providers can access the latest clinical guidelines, protocols, educational materials, and reporting tools to support their care.

Office of Drug User Health

The New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute's Office of Drug User Health is dedicated to improving the quality of life of all New Yorkers who use drugs by promoting harm reduction, accessible health care, and supportive services. The site features information on syringe exchange programs, opioid overdose prevention initiatives, cannabis safety, and harm reduction vending machine locations across the state. Providers can also find up-to-date clinical guidelines, harm reduction toolkits, training opportunities, and resources on treatments like buprenorphine.

Office of Mental Health

The New York State Office of Mental Health is committed to promoting the mental health of all New Yorkers, with a focus on hope, healing, and recovery. On this site, you'll find information on local mental health programs and tools to support your mental wellness, manage stress, and build resilience. Behavioral health providers can also access guidance documents, training platforms, and practical tools to support the delivery of care.

  • Mental health matters! Explore the site today to connect with support, learn new coping strategies, and take a step toward wellness. Need Help Now? Dial or text 988.

Division of Human Rights

The New York State Division of Human Rights is dedicated to eliminating discrimination, remedying injustice, and promoting equal opportunity, access, and dignity for all New Yorkers. On this site, you'll find information about your rights under the Human Rights Law, including step-by-step guidance on how to file a discrimination complaint. You can also report a bias or hate incident using the easy-to-access reporting tool.