Experiences of transgender individuals with medical care in southern New Mexico: An argument for a diverse and intersectional trans informed care

Abstract

Access to and experiences with healthcare, both gender affirming and non-trans related, are not equitable for all transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people. This is particularly true in southern New Mexico (NM), a geographic location with unique contexts and barriers as a borderlands region that is absent from current TGD health equity literature. It is, therefore, tantamount to create solutions that center the voices and experiences of TGD people while also keeping in mind the multiplicity and complexity of intersectional backgrounds and barriers inclusive of race, ability, class, age, sexuality, and gender, and beyond. This work examines the medical experiences of 20 diverse transgender individuals in southern NM in their own words as presented from semi-structured focus groups and interviews designed to elicit experiences seeking and receiving care and to suggest improvements to healthcare in the region. Participants reported a variety of experiences including difficulties accessing care because of finances, insurance and transportation; hesitation based on previous negative experiences including misgendering, harassment and discrimination, negative experiences shared by others, and more. Participant solutions included trans-informed care, rigorous inclusion trainings, better signage in clinics, and the suggestion of trans and LGBT+ specific clinics. These experiences, suggestions, and analysis will hopefully contribute to material change and inspire continuing research into TGD health equity in this region.