Howard Brown Health is Chicago’s inclusive healthcare provider

For over four decades, Howard Brown Health has been a cornerstone of LGBTQIA+ healthcare in Chicago. Founded with the mission to provide accessible and inclusive care to underserved communities, the organization has grown into one of the largest LGBTQIA+ healthcare providers in the U.S. Howard Brown offers a range of vital services that cater specifically to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community while also extending care to anyone in need, regardless of their ability to pay.

The healthcare services provided by Howard Brown cover everything from primary care and preventive medicine to specialized support for HIV and transgender health. Whether it’s routine check-ups, mental health counseling, sexual and reproductive health services, or HIV prevention and care through PrEP and PEP programs, the organization ensures that its services meet the unique needs of the diverse community it serves. Notably, their transgender health services offer a comprehensive approach, providing hormone therapy, gender-affirming care, and surgeries as well as long-term health support.

However, Howard Brown’s impact goes beyond clinical care. The organization is deeply committed to health equity and community outreach. They provide their services on a sliding fee scale, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent people from accessing the healthcare they need. The organization also works tirelessly to reach populations that are historically underserved, such as Black and Latinx communities. Through its various programs, Howard Brown is breaking down barriers to care and addressing long-standing health disparities.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Howard Brown Health’s commitment to health equity was more critical than ever. Recognizing the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on Black and Latinx communities, the organization rapidly expanded its services to address the urgent need for testing and vaccination in these neighborhoods. By partnering with local institutions, Howard Brown was able to set up testing and vaccination sites across Chicago, directly reaching those most affected by the pandemic. These efforts not only saved lives but also increased awareness of Howard Brown’s inclusive healthcare model, making it a trusted source for many who may have never accessed their services before.

As Howard Brown continues to expand its footprint across Chicago, the organization remains laser-focused on its mission to provide inclusive, compassionate care. The Broadway Youth Center is one of their standout initiatives, offering support for LGBTQIA+ youth facing homelessness. This center provides medical care, mental health services, and resources to meet basic needs like shelter and food. The center is a crucial part of Howard Brown’s outreach, ensuring that some of the city’s most vulnerable populations have access to life-saving services and support.

Moving forward, Howard Brown Health shows no signs of slowing down. As they grow, they continue to integrate their services into more neighborhoods, maintaining strong ties with the communities they serve. By offering a range of services that prioritize inclusion, affordability, and equity, Howard Brown is setting a standard for healthcare organizations everywhere, showing that comprehensive care can—and should—be accessible to all.

Howard Brown Health’s leadership in LGBTQIA+ healthcare, their commitment to health equity, and their ability to respond quickly to crises like the COVID-19 pandemic underscore their vital role in the community. With multiple locations across the city and a growing range of services, they are poised to continue making a lasting impact in Chicago and beyond.