Dr. John-David Lyons
The Medical Gay and Lesbian Organization (MedGLO) began about 20 years ago at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA (DGSOM). The group's original purpose remains a staple of its present-day vision "to build and sustain a strong community at the David Geffen School of Medicine, Fielding School of Public Health, School of Dentistry, and School of Nursing at UCLA that supports LGBTQ+ individuals and can meet the health needs of LGBTQ+ patients with compassionate and competent care."
In addition to supporting LGBT+ students and staff, MedGLO champions advocacy and research in areas critical to LGBT+ patient health.
During the first few weeks on campus, students look for communities of like-minded peers. A variety of MedGLO welcoming events, from barbecues to wine and cheese nights, give new students the chance to meet current students and alumni.
"The welcome events are a great way to meet other students and faculty," said former MedGLO Co-President Dr. John-David Lyons, DGSOM class of 2018. "There are so many subgroups within medicine, and this is a great social and networking opportunity."
MedGLO also helps students relax with events throughout the year, including mixers that bring together students from medical, public health and pharmacy programs in neighboring communities.
MedGLO also helps advance research and awareness of health concerns affecting the LGBT+ community. For example, with excellent support from UCLA’s administration, MedGLO has hosted conferences where experts and researchers across specialties talk about transgender youth health, race within the LGBT+ community, navigating health systems for same-sex parents and a host of similar issues.
"It's great to see the community recognizing the need for physicians competent in LGBT health, and the health struggles the members of the community face," Dr. Lyons said.
MedGLO is not exclusive to LGBT+ students. Dr. Lyons encourages anyone with an interest in LGBT+ health issues to see what the organization has to offer. Visit MedGLO →
By Patricia Chaney
