Researchers from Alberta are seeking input from Prince Edward Islanders regarding the challenges faced by transgender adults in accessing gender-affirming healthcare. Sandra Thoms and Nicholas Wallace, students of social work at the University of Calgary, are conducting a study in Atlantic Canada to gather insights from both the transgender community and healthcare providers.
Wallace emphasized the lack of comprehensive research on the experiences of transgender individuals seeking healthcare services. Specifically, there is a noticeable gap in research focusing on Atlantic Canada in this area.
Gender-affirming care, as defined by the World Health Organization, encompasses a range of interventions including social, psychological, behavioral, and medical support aimed at validating an individual’s gender identity. AinZ Kendrick, the executive director of the P.E.I. Transgender Network, highlighted the holistic nature of gender-affirming care, extending beyond medical transitions to encompass comprehensive support for individuals.
Thoms echoed Kendrick’s sentiments, underscoring the importance of basic respect, such as using the correct name and pronouns, in providing affirming healthcare services. They emphasized the need for healthcare providers to educate themselves on the unique needs of the transgender community to offer inclusive and respectful care.
The researchers noted that participation from Prince Edward Island in their study has been relatively low compared to other Atlantic provinces, with most respondents currently hailing from Newfoundland and Labrador. Kendrick attributed this trend to existing stigma and fear within the transgender community regarding the dissemination of personal information.
Despite P.E.I.’s commendable gender-affirming care policies, Kendrick pointed out remaining barriers, such as the need for certain medical procedures, like mastectomies, to be available locally rather than requiring travel to other provinces.
Thoms and Wallace aim to shed light not only on the challenges faced by transgender individuals within the healthcare system but also on positive experiences. They plan to share their findings with the communities they engage with, hoping to drive positive changes in healthcare provision for transgender individuals.
Ultimately, the researchers aspire that their study outcomes will contribute to enhancing the healthcare experiences of those who shared their stories, fostering trust and positive change within the system.