‘Queer-Friendly’ hospitals to be introduced in 4 Kerala districts
In the first phase, the initiative will be implemented in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Kozhikode districts.
For the first time in India, the Kerala government is set to launch its first-ever “Queer-Friendly Hospital Initiative” to safeguard the rights of the queer and transgender community and ensure inclusive healthcare services across the State’s hospitals.
Health Minister Veena George announced that the Health Department is committed to implementing an initiative where all hospital care and services will be provided without any discrimination to the queer and transgender community.
The initiative will be rolled out in the initial phase in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Kozhikode districts. General Hospitals in these areas are being equipped to offer the program, and hospital employees are receiving comprehensive training and sensitization. The long-term vision is to extend this queer-friendly approach to all healthcare institutions throughout the State.
A crucial first step in this process is the launch of the transgender community link worker (CLW) scheme in the four selected districts where the hospital initiative will be implemented. The CLW’s role will be to bridge the gap between the transgender community and the health system, ensuring that essential healthcare services are accessible to transgender individuals who often face difficulties and intimidation when interacting with mainstream society.
When transgender individuals seek hospital services through the CLW, they will receive all the necessary help and care in hospitals, creating a safe and supportive environment. The government remains dedicated to prioritizing services for the transgender community as part of its ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and acceptance.
The move marks a significant milestone for Kerala, demonstrating its commitment to protecting the rights and healthcare needs of the queer and transgender community. By creating an environment free of discrimination, the government aims to promote equal access to healthcare services for all, regardless of gender identity.
