They don't see our feelings: The health care experiences of HIV-positive transgendered persons

1998 | Journal of the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association

Program(s): Epidemiology and Population Health |

Abstract:

Objective: To support longer survival, it is necessary to reach an understanding of the knowledge and experience of the HIV-positive transgendered population of current HIV antiretroviral therapies and mainstream health care. Methods: This qualitative study utilized a grounded theory analysis with data collection occurring through two peer-facilitated focus groups. The study participants were 10 male-to-female HIV+ transgendered persons who were street-involved injection drug users or recovering addicts. A short questionnaire was used to complete a demographic profile of the group. Focus group sessions elicited information on participants' experiences with (a) health care delivery and (b) primary care services. Audiotapes from the sessions were transcribed verbatim. Major themes were generated and subthemes explored via hierarchical branching schema. Results: Primary care providers emerged in the text as dominant figures on which the participants were completely dependent for a variety of care needs. Text data revealed many barriers to the mainstream health care system. Specifically, poor coordination and/or lack of services prevented transgendered persons from accessing HIV care. Findings illustrated a failure in professional skill, poor practice, and a lack of cultural competence in existing health care agencies. Conclusions: Health providers must coordinate care with sensitivity and skill with respect to issues of gender, addiction, and HIV for transgendered persons. Adherence to antiretroviral therapy is more effective when addiction is addressed with methadone and/or recovery programs at the same time. The need for hormone therapy creates an important entry point to care, and represents a pragmatic reference point to which to affix HIV prevention and care programs effectively.

Text or Node

Schilder A

BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS

Search form

They don't see our feelings: The health care experiences of HIV-positive transgendered persons

Search form