The Eidos LGBTQ+ Health Initiative

Breaking Boundaries, Building a Healthier Tomorrow

Eidos is Penn’s social innovation hub that works across sectors to address health disparities and advance equity in health for all.

More than 7% of the U.S. and up to 25% of younger generations identify as LGBTQ+, yet 1 in 5 LGBTQ+ individuals avoided seeking healthcare due to fear of disrespect or discrimination.

Less than 1% of NIH funded projects focus on LGBTQ+ populations.

For every $100 awarded by U.S. foundations in 2020, only 23 cents specifically supported LGBTQ+ communities and issues.

Only 0.5% of $2.1 trillion in funding for startups went to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs in 2023.

What We Do

Without intentional partnerships and investment, advancements to reduce health disparities will lag and stagnate. Eidos convenes and collaborates with experts and organizations across industries and disciplines to develop groundbreaking science, products, public policy, and novel solutions that elevate and advance public health for the greater good.

The Public Health Need

LGBTQ+ health disparities are shaped by every aspect of daily life, from housing and employment to community connection and safety. Addressing inequities isn’t just about improving care for LGBTQ+ people, but also strengthening the broader health and wellbeing of our entire society.

Our Work

Our services can enhance your work and add a more integrative, humanistic approach to your ideas.

Who We Are

Founded by Dr. José Bauermeister, Albert M. Greenfield Professor of Human Relations at University of Pennsylvania, Eidos brings together the best of Penn—our students, staff, and faculty’s commitment to social justice, combined with world-class interdisciplinary expertise in cutting-edge intervention science across all 12 schools.

Resources

Our workbooks, guides, and reports are designed with expert knowledge to help you support LGBTQ+ health and navigate key topics with confidence.

Queering Design
Thinking Workbook

Inspired by the culture of queer communities, our workbook offers a practical guide to understanding and applying design thinking methods that center on inclusivity and innovation.

A History of LGBTQ+
Health in Photographs

This rare collection of photos reveals powerful moments in LGBTQ+ health history: stories of care, resistance, and community. While much remains unseen, the photos offer glimpses into the legacy that shaped our progress.

LGBTQ+ Health & Social Connection Report

Created in response to the U.S. Surgeon General’s 2023 advisory on the loneliness epidemic, this report examines how isolation uniquely impacts LGBTQ+ health, and how belonging and social connection can be a powerful force for healing.