In a world where healthcare is becoming more of a luxury than a human right, Metro Community Health Center seeks to provide care no matter who you are or your income level. Here, Swissvale, Wilkinsburg, Braddock, the greater Pittsburgh area, and anyone else who desires help can access comprehensive services like medical, mental health, dental, and support, such as transportation and pharmacy discounts. For some people, Metro Community Health Center is the one place left in the city where they can rest assured they’ll be treated like a human being, especially if they’re a part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
In 1999, Metro got its start as Metro Family Practice, gathering together a group of physicians with a background in community and preventive medicine. From this beginning, the center has only grown, relocating in 2014 and adding a mobile clinic for both medical and dental services in 2023. Their discount program, as well as a variety of other assistance programs, all add up to a center that is community-focused inside and out.
“We offer a sliding fee scale discount program, translation services, and case management to ensure that care is accessible to everyone in our community,” explains Metro. “Our Community Health Program connects our patients and community members to vital resources. We also collaborate with a wide range of community partners, including homeless shelters, senior care facilities, LGBTQIA+ organizations, emergency housing centers, local school districts, and many others, to make sure no one is left behind.”
Metro’s message is actually a fairly simple but impactful one. Metro Community Health Center always has and always will provide comprehensive, compassionate, and inclusive care to everybody, regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, insurance status, income, or ability to pay. They state, “We believe healthcare is a right, not a privilege.”
To make this statement come to life, Metro has committed to providing a range of health services to uplift LGBTQIA+ persons specifically. Whether you’re looking for gender-affirming care, sexual wellness services, or just someone like-minded to speak with, Metro is here to connect you even when no one else will.
“Metro has always been known as a safe space for everyone and treats all patients with dignity and respect,” says Metro. “We are proud to offer specialized care for LGBTQIA+ individuals, including gender-affirming care and hormone replacement therapy to individuals ages 19 and older, HIV prevention and treatment (including PrEP and PEP), mental health services with LGBTQIA+ competent therapists, and transition-related primary care. Our providers are trained to deliver care in an affirming, nonjudgmental environment that recognizes and celebrates the diversity of gender and sexuality.”
As the political landscape continues to shift and a greater number of communities come under fire, certain healthcare providers have already made changes to the care they provide to transgender youth. Thankfully, even through all this turmoil, the entire LGBTQIA+ community has a place at Metro.
“We recognize that recent changes and executive orders from the federal government may have raised concerns about access to healthcare and the future programs that many depend on,” reassures Metro. “Metro is deeply committed to providing compassionate, community-focused care to everyone and remains steadfast in our mission to provide care to those who need it most, especially in times of uncertainty. Our first priority is always the health, dignity, and safety of our patients. We continue to advocate for policies that protect healthcare access, particularly for LGBTQIA+ individuals and other marginalized populations, while actively building community partnerships and expanding services to meet rising needs.”
To get started with Metro Community Health Center, call their main line at 412-247-2310 to schedule an appointment or ask any questions you may have. After all, even if you do not need medical help, there are still many ways that Metro can help you thrive.
“Metro is more than a clinic—we’re a community hub,” says Metro. “We partner with local LGBTQIA+ organizations, participate in Pride events, offer monetary support/sponsorships, and create safe spaces for healing and support. Our commitment is ongoing and rooted in trust, respect, and visibility. We’re here to serve, uplift, and stand with the LGBTQIA+ community every day.”
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