Ferraz D, Mabire X, Robin-Radier S, Cuenot L, Coulot-Prenant A, Puppo C, OUTrans, Del Rio Carral M, Préau M.
Sante Publique. 2025;37(3):99-111. French.
PMID: 41052959
DOI: 10.3917/spub.pr2.0076
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Access to health care for trans and gender-diverse individuals is marked by persistent inequalities, often rooted in stigma and discrimination. The limited involvement of health care and social service professionals further restricts these individuals' access to adequate care. This article offers a novel analytical perspective by examining the experiences, motivations, and perceived enablers highlighted by professionals in the medical and social fields who are actively engaged in supporting the health care of trans people.
Methods: Thirteen professionals took part in the study through individual interviews and a focus group. Thematic analysis identified several key barriers and enablers in their practices.
Results: Enablers included a strong commitment to social justice, the establishment of egalitarian care relationships, and prior familiarity with the trans community. Major barriers included a lack of training and official guidelines, fear of overstepping one's professional boundaries, and structural constraints tied to a binary male/female health care model. Participants suggested several avenues for improvement, including the development of guidelines by the French National Health Authority, the generation of robust scientific data, and the integration of specific content on trans health into both initial and continuing education. These measures, they emphasized, must be developed in collaboration with the communities concerned. Ultimately, participants stressed that reducing health care access inequalities depends on increasing the number of professionals who are both committed and adequately trained to support trans individuals.
Discussion: Transforming the health care system into a more inclusive space for trans people requires the commitment of professionals, institutional reforms, and the active participation of those directly concerned, in order to improve access to care and enhance the quality and equity of health care for all.
Keywords: community-based research.; health care access; professional practices; qualitative research; trans individuals.
