A program of Sherbourne Health, Rainbow Health Ontario (RHO) creates opportunities for the healthcare system to better serve 2SLGBTQ communities. For example, we:
- promote better 2SLGBTQ health outcomes by improving access to relevant and appropriate care;
- offer training for healthcare providers across the province to feel more clinically and culturally competent in caring for their 2SLGBTQ service users;
- produce evidence-based print and web resources;
- act as a research catalyst and contribute a 2SLGBTQ health perspective to public policy processes; and
- host Canada’s largest 2SLGBTQ health conference.
RHO’s work includes building capacity for trans health care across Ontario through clinical and cultural competency training, mentoring and fostering networks, and resources and consultation. RHO is also a partner in Ontario’s Trans Health Expansion (THEx), a partnership formed with Women’s College Hospital and CAMH to improve access to transition-related surgeries (TRS) and post-surgical care.
RHO creates and distributes resources for 2SLGBTQ communities, service providers and others with an interest in 2SLGBTQ health. You can visit a collection of just RHO-produced resources, or search our extensive Resource Library which includes third-party resources.
RHO is a catalyst for 2SLGBTQ health research. We partner with others to share knowledge, sit on advisory committees and foster research networks. RHO also lists open LGBT2SQ health research on this site and hosts a health researcher database.
As a knowledge source for evidence-based information about 2SLGBTQ health, RHO regularly consults on public policy.
2SLGBTQ communities face specific health challenges and barriers to accessing care. RHO offers training for health care and social service providers to increase their clinical and cultural competency in caring for their 2SLGBTQ service users. With LGBT2SQ Health Connect, RHO’s new online learning platform, these trainings are now more easily accessible from anywhere across the province than ever.
RHO connects 2SLGBTQ service users with information on nearby service providers. Our Service Provider Directory lists health and social service providers as well as programs that have expressed a commitment to providing 2SLGBTQ-positive services.
RHO hosts Canada’s forum on 2SLGBTQ health: the Rainbow Health Ontario Conference. This go-to event brings together experts to share knowledge, train healthcare providers and uncover new research in a welcoming, inclusive environment.