HEALTH AND BEAUTY CLOSE-UP-22 October 2008-Aetna to Link Its Online Provider Directory to GLMA's Database(C)2008 - CloseUpMedia - newsdesk@closeupmedia.com

Aetna and the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) announced that Aetna is the first health benefits company in the U.S. to

According to the company, the database includes primary care providers, specialists, therapists, and dentists who welcome lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) patients.

In addition, Aetna has awarded GLMA a $50,000 grant as the diamond sponsor of GLMA's 26th Annual Conference scheduled for October 22-25 in Seattle. The conference is remarkable for its size, scope, and diversity of programming, with presentations and workshops on HIV/AIDS; lesbian, gay, transgender and bisexual health; substance abuse; aging; families and relationships; and legal issues.

"We hope to see other insurance companies follow Aetna's lead by linking to our database," said Joel Ginsberg, GLMA's executive director. "This is a valuable tool that allows LGBT individuals to find LGBT-friendly health care providers whom they can trust."

"All patients must feel comfortable speaking candidly with their health care providers so that the care delivered is appropriate and effective, and patients can take greater control of their health and well-being," said Troyen Brennan, M.D., Aetna's chief medical officer. "Aetna and the GLMA share a similar goal of eliminating disparities in health care, including unequal health care access and outcomes that critically challenge the American health care system today."

"Providing easy access to the GLMA database through a link in DocFind gives gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender members one more way to locate physicians who understand their specific medical needs," Brennan said.

"We recognize and applaud health care providers who have joined our directory. Their interest in LGBT health issues and their commitment to creating a welcoming environment for LGBT patients is commendable and is truly needed by the LGBT community," Ginsberg said.

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