NEED OF AN INCLUSIVE AND ACCESSIBLE TRANSGENDER HEALTHCARE IN INDIA: AN OVERVIEW

Avanish Kumar Tripathi* and Prof. Udai Pratap Singh

ABSTRACT

Transgender individuals face severe stigma, discrimination, social, structural and institutional barriers while accessing healthcare needs for their survival in the 21st century. The constitution of India bans all forms of discrimination among citizens and allows equal access of resources to every individual. Social stigma, lack of preventive care, are major self barrier whereas affordability, doctor patient communication are structural and institutional barriers in attaining quality healthcare access and Wellbeing of the Trans individuals. The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2019, and Rules 2020 have formulated plan and policies for accessible healthcare delivery and better quality of life among the trans community. Objective: In the view of the above the present paper aims to find out the barriers in accessing healthcare by the trans gender community and building an inclusive healthcare system in India. Method: Using scoping review, we appraised peer-reviewed published studies and gray literature from three databases, JSTOR, PubMed and Google Scholar. The literature included a total of 35 articles met the inclusion criteria for a review. Result: Transgender individuals experience discrimination at healthcare facilities and by healthcare service providers. The major reasons for the discriminatory behavior towards the community was (i) Social prejudice (ii) Trans health knowledge gap (iii) Lack of medical and health infrastructures (iv) Transphobia (v) Affordability (vi) Accessibility (vii) intrapersonal barriers and interpersonal barriers. Conclusion: Despite legal advancements, transgender individuals in India continue to face significant barriers to healthcare access, including stigma, economic challenges, and a lack of provider knowledge. Comprehensive reforms are essential, including targeted training for healthcare professionals, improved economic support through initiatives like Ayushman Bharat TG Plus, and the establishment of specialized clinics. Additionally, inclusive policy-making that incorporates the voices of transgender individuals is crucial for addressing their unique needs. By fostering an equitable healthcare environment, India can ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender identity, receive the quality care they deserve, contributing to a healthier nation.

Keywords: Transgender, Discrimination, Healthcare, Inclusion, Homophobia, Trans-health, health literacy.