Researchers from Alberta are seeking input from residents of Prince Edward Island regarding the challenges faced by transgender adults in accessing gender-affirming healthcare. Sandra Thoms and Nicholas Wallace, students in the field of social work at the University of Calgary, have set their sights on Atlantic Canada for a comprehensive study encompassing the viewpoints of both the transgender community and healthcare professionals.
Wallace highlighted the scarcity of research dedicated to the experiences of transgender individuals seeking healthcare services, particularly within the context of Atlantic Canada. The World Health Organization defines gender-affirming care as encompassing various interventions—social, psychological, behavioral, or medical—that validate and support a person’s gender identity.
AinZ Kendrick, the executive director of the P.E.I. Transgender Network, emphasized the comprehensive nature of gender-affirming care, emphasizing that it goes beyond medical transitions to encompass holistic support for individuals. Thoms echoed this sentiment, underlining the significance of showing respect by using correct names and pronouns during medical visits.
Despite current participation primarily originating from Newfoundland and Labrador, Thoms and Wallace aim to expand their study’s reach to include a more diverse range of perspectives from the entire region, as participation from Prince Edward Island currently lags behind other Atlantic provinces. Kendrick attributed this lower response rate to lingering stigma and fear within the transgender community concerning the dissemination of personal information.
Acknowledging the existing healthcare policies supporting gender-affirming care in P.E.I., Kendrick noted persistent barriers that hinder accessibility to necessary services, such as sending individuals requiring mastectomies to Montreal despite local provisions. The researchers aspire to shed light not only on challenges but also on positive encounters transgender individuals have within the healthcare system.
Upon completion of their study, Thoms and Wallace plan to share their findings with the communities they engaged with, aiming to catalyze positive changes in the provision of care. Wallace expressed hopes that their research outcomes will contribute meaningfully to improving the healthcare experiences of those who shared their stories and experiences.