Unveiling, Unseen Realities

The historical stigmatization and discrimination faced by transgender (TG) women and hijra individuals within the healthcare system might result in the internalization of stigma and prejudice. Moreover, it forbids them from disclosing their symptoms of COVID-19 infection and the ability to use public healthcare services. Given the heightened susceptibility of transgenders to a range of health issues encompassing physical, mental, social as well as psychological aspects, it is imperative to implement routine screening and prompt intervention to mitigate any concurrent conditions. Furthermore, ensuring the convenient availability of fundamental healthcare services, guaranteeing nutritional stability, and providing psychosocial assistance to TGs are vital in combating illnesses. Training health care providers to be proficient and empathetic in delivering primary health care services to TGs is crucial. Additionally, it is essential to implement measures that reduce discrimination in different settings. This can be achieved by raising awareness among the public through mass media and providing specialized training and sensitization programs for public, police and health care providers.