SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) – In celebration of Pride Month, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is highlighting a range of initiatives designed to improve health outcomes and expand access to care for the state’s LGBTQIA+ community. IDPH says its goal is to support the “full range of health needs” of LGBTQIA+ Illinoisans with programs that emphasize inclusivity, equity, and respect.
“During Pride Month, IDPH is extremely proud to join the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies across Illinois in celebrating the strength we gain through unity and common purpose,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “A mainstay of the health of our society is the ability of every resident to be their true and authentic selves.”
Earlier this year, IDPH announced a standing order that allows pharmacists across the state to dispense PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis)—a medication that prevents HIV—without requiring patients to first obtain a prescription from a doctor. The change is intended to reduce barriers to access and encourage broader use of the lifesaving treatment.
IDPH’s Division of Vital Records has also modernized how residents can amend the sex designation on their birth certificates, now allowing individuals to submit an affidavit, a correction form, a copy of their ID, and a $15 fee. Applicants can choose from “M,” “F,” or “X” designations without needing a physician’s verification—a change designed to be more inclusive of transgender and nonbinary individuals.
In partnership with Equality Illinois, the department also updated parental designation fields on state birth records to reflect the diversity of families, including those headed by same-sex and transgender couples.
IDPH says it has increased training for both its employees and partner organizations to promote culturally sensitive language and enforce compliance with anti-discrimination laws. The department has implemented gender-neutral restrooms for all single-stall facilities at its offices across the state.
In addition to participating in the Chicago Pride Parade under this year’s theme, “United in Pride,” IDPH encourages Illinoisans to explore local Pride events. A full list is available at Enjoy Illinois.