This article describes a research project conducted by the Lesbian Hearth Care Project of Western New York (LHCP). This is a report of a community survey of 106 Western New York lesbian and bisexual women; the survey was the first of a four-stage project This research helps fill a gap in our knowledge about what service users consider to be lesbian-sensitive and what they consider most important in choosing a physical or mental health care provider. Results suggest that a provider of high quality, lesbian-sensitive services is someone who: 1) above all else, is a competent practitioner; 2) is available in emergencies; 3) is economically accessible; 4) has a positive attitude toward a woman's female partner and the lesbian community; and 5) is sensitive to several social issues of concern to lesbians. Practitioners are encouraged to discuss these issues and to articulate to their lesbian clients a positive regard for lesbian communities and their wealth of resources.
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