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Breaking Barriers: Strategies for Inclusive Transgender Healthcare in Indian Hospitals‐A Commentary

Author

Listed:
  • Altaf Yousuf Mir
  • Sayani Das
  • Sanjay Sharma
  • G. S. Preetha
  • Anuj Kumar Pandey
  • Sutapa Bandyopadhyay Neogi

Abstract

Transgender people have historically been discriminated against by the society. Since the time their legal rights were recognised by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) v. Union of India, remarkable progress has been made to improve access to health services. The Transgender Act of 2019 and SMILE—Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise project by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in 2022 have boosted the efforts further. The Act emphasises that at least one government hospital in a state should provide safe and free gender‐affirming surgery and related services. A major component of the SMILE scheme focuses on transgender health, providing a comprehensive medical health package in conjunction with the integration of Ayushman Bharat—Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM‐JAY). However, its operationalisation is fraught with several systemic challenges. In order to ensure effective implementation, an inclusive approach across the primary, secondary and tertiary levels of health system is warranted. This manuscript emphasises on creating Transgender Friendly Hospital Initiative by following a comprehensive approach. Establishment of a dedicated transgender OPD, separate wards/units, measures to improve quality of holistic care, sensitisation of care providers and hospital machinery, continuous medical education and advocacy for equal access are some of the measures suggested for institutionalisation of services. Success lies in collaborative and collective implementation of activities by creating a healthcare landscape that prioritises the well‐being of transgender individuals across India.

Suggested Citation

  • Altaf Yousuf Mir & Sayani Das & Sanjay Sharma & G. S. Preetha & Anuj Kumar Pandey & Sutapa Bandyopadhyay Neogi, 2026. "Breaking Barriers: Strategies for Inclusive Transgender Healthcare in Indian Hospitals‐A Commentary," International Journal of Health Planning and Management, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 41(4), pages 786-789, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ijhplm:v:41:y:2026:i:4:p:786-789
    DOI: 10.1002/hpm.70087
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