LGBTQ COMMUNITIES IN INDIA: BARRIERS IN ACCESSING HEALTH CARE FACILITIES -abstract

Background: The global experience of LGBTQ populations with respect to health and healthcare services is fraught with disparities and barriers. The stigma and discrimination against these communities stems from their experience of violence against them from various social groups. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) community prefer to remain outside the mainstream health services and this can be because of the stigmatization by the healthcare providers. Aim: The objective of this paper is to identify the stigmatization, barriers to health care and particular health issues and health risks experienced by these groups. Methods and Materials: The study is a qualitative study that has examined the available literature in India to identify the challenges faced by transgender individuals and substantiated the findings with some in-depth case studies representing the various identities of LGBTQ communities. Conclusion: The study reveals that the main obstacles faced are stigma, limited sexual health knowledge, concerns about confidentiality, fatalistic attitudes and structural barriers. The suggestions that developed from this study were inclusive clinics, improved doctor patient interaction, sensitive data collection, cultural awareness, Staff training and education.

Keywords: LGBTQIA groups, health care, barriers, challenges, inclusive