The right to health means that every individual has the right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, according to the National Economic and Social Rights Initiative. This means that this accessibility should be provided to individuals despite gender, race, sex, or economic standings.
Meghana Pisupati
Drexel IMS 2017
However, this standard for health seems to falter even in this progressive day and age when it comes to individuals who have courageously chosen to confront their gender dysphoria and opt toward a more fulfilling life. Studies estimate that there are approximately 1.4 million adults who identify as transgender today in the United States, yet healthcare accessibility remains sparse. This is because of common misconceptions concerning trans-healthcare requirements, and the lack of insurance coverage on behalf of a wide number of providers. Moreover, it is estimated that only approximately 7% of medical schools incorporate LGBTQ related curriculum during their preclinical years, which explains the lack of specialists and refusal of care on the basis of expertise.
Therefore, in order to enable transgender individuals to have the same access to care as cis individuals, there must be better health care insurance, specialized for the needs of transgender individuals and an incorporation of transgender healthcare practices into medical school curricula. The raising of awareness concerning transgender healthcare needs and medication will prove immensely beneficial to truly enable heath care access for all, without stigma, prejudice, or ignorance. What other ways can we help to improve access for everyone? Comment below!
Meghana Pisupati
Drexel IMS 2017
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