Following a successful first edition, the Queer Health Conference is set to return on Monday, October 5, 2026, at the Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs in Utrecht. The event aims to equip healthcare providers with the knowledge and tools necessary to offer more inclusive and effective care to LGBTQ+ individuals.
Why This Matters for Our Community
Accessing healthcare can be a challenging experience for many in the queer community. From a lack of understanding about trans health to assumptions about sexuality and relationships, these gaps in knowledge can lead to inadequate care and a reluctance to seek medical help. This conference directly addresses these issues by creating a forum for education and discussion among medical professionals.
The goal, as stated by the organizers, is to foster an environment where queer individuals feel seen, respected, and understood by their doctors, therapists, and other care providers. It focuses on care that is sensitive and tailored to the specific needs of the diverse LGBTQ+ population.
Event Details and Collaboration
The conference is organized by the Utrecht Queer Culture Festival (UQCF) in collaboration with several key partners, including the Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs and the 'Alliantie Gezondheidszorg op Maat' (a partnership of Rutgers, COC Nederland, and Women Inc.). This year, the organization RozeinWit has also joined as a partner, bringing further expertise to the event.
While the full program is still under development, it is expected to feature a mix of plenary sessions with keynote speakers and a variety of smaller, specialized breakout sessions. The day will begin at 12:30 PM with a reception and lunch, with the formal program concluding around 5:00 PM, followed by an opportunity for networking.
Stay Informed
The conference is primarily aimed at healthcare professionals. For those in the field or anyone interested in following the developments, early registration of interest is now open. By signing up, you will be the first to receive updates on the program and be notified when official ticket sales begin.
To register your interest, you can fill out the online form here: Queer Health Conference 2026 Interest Form.