Health-Related Experiences, Needs, and Challenges of Transgender People in Prisons: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Despite transgender people being a vulnerable group, many jurisdictions lack an appropriate prison policy for transgender prisoners. We examined five databases for studies published in English between 2010 and December 2022. After screening, a total of 18 articles were included for review, highlighting four significant issues: (1) incorrect housing classification; (2) barriers to gender-affirming commodities; (3) healthcare services; and (4) gender-based violence and discrimination against transgender inmates by other inmates and prison officials. The study recommends appointing an interdisciplinary transgender committee in prisons and enhancing gender sensitivity among corrections officials to meet the transgender inmates’ needs.