With survey evidence that the LGBT population has grown, New York-based advocacy organization Family Equality Council has joined forces with Reproductive Medicine Associates to expand parenting opportunities for the community.
“As the only national LGBTQ organization focused specifically on supporting LGBTQ families and those who seek to form them, Family Equality Council is uniquely positioned to assist RMA in its care of LGBTQ patients,” said The Rev. Stan J. Sloan, CEO of Family Equality Council, in a press statement.
Two of RMA’s longest-running clinics, Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey and Reproductive Medicine Associates of Philadelphia, have long-established programs for the LGBTQ community. The RMA network has expanded into additional markets including Orlando, San Francisco and Los Angeles, in addition to welcoming another local clinic in Allentown.
“Over the last 25 years, I have had the privilege of helping members of Philadelphia’s and the Delaware Valley’s LGBTQ community build their families,” said Dr. Jackie Gutmann, a physician with RMA of Philadelphia who leads the clinic’s LGBTQ programs. “Medically and scientifically, much has changed over this time, but the fundamental premise remains the same: Provide everyone with the highest quality care and the utmost compassion.”
Family Equality Council soon will begin competency coursework training, which is expected to enhance employees’ ability to deliver an inclusive patient experience sensitive to LGBTQ patients. RMA staff members and patients also will have access to Family Equality Council’s wide array of family formation educational tools.
“Most members of the LGBTQ community are not contending with an infertility diagnosis, but nevertheless need some assistance in fulfilling their dreams to become parents, and we are proud to help them on their path,” said Dr. Dan Kaser, an RMANJ physician who oversees the organization’s LGBTQ programs added that.
Melissa Drake, the communications director for RMA, summed it up in a phone interview by highlighting the legacy status of its Philly and New Jersey clinics, (“longer running than Los Angeles and Orlando”) and saying how, at the end of the day, families come in all shapes and sizes and the teaming of RMA with the FEC is a great match.
“RMA is committed to our patients becoming parents, and is pleased to be working with Family Equality Council to do so.”