Push for stigma-free healthcare for LGBTQI+ members
Kolkata: Inclusive healthcare facilities for the LGBTQIA+ community, free of prejudice and stigma, was necessary for an equitable society: this was the focus of a sensitisation seminar for healthcare workers organised by Kolkata Pride in collaboration with Peerless Hospital and B K Roy Research Centre on Saturday.
The panel discussion highlighted a case study, in which a trans woman was kept at a male surgery ward, as according to the hospital administrator, she was biologically a male.
Another case study talked about how a gay male was asked by his physician to get married to avoid contracting infections.
The vice-dean of MGM Medical College, Kishanganj, Asitava Deb Roy, pointed out a large number of medical students had misconceptions about LGBTQIA+ members. A neuro-psychiatrist at NRS Medical College and a member of queer community, Bhaskar Das said, “There is a stigma attached to the treatment of LGBTQIA+ members. It should not be a battle for them to seek healthcare and they should not feel anxious to go to a doctor.”
The panelists also discussed how HIV-positive LGBTQIA+ members were “doubly discriminated against”. Head medical services, Fortis, Suchanda Gatre said consent and counselling were key. Deputy managing director of Peerless Hospital and B K Roy Research Centre Ravindra Pai feels healthcare should be made affordable to all, irrespective of gender and socio-economic status. NRS psychiatrist Dipanwita Biswas pointed out the importance of taking care of their mental health. Clinical director, research and academic, Peerless and B K Roy Research Centre Subhrojyoti Bhowmick said more awareness talks could usher in the change.
