Experiences Accessing Gender-Affirming Care in Nova Scotia: More than Medical Care

Abstract

Access to affirmative care, especially for gender-diverse individuals, is fundamental. Factors like socioeconomic status, location, gender identity, and sexual orientation intertwine to create disparities across various levels, exacerbating existing burdens. Gender-affirming care (GAC) encompasses all necessary support for affirming gender identity, ranging from medical to non-medical services. Despite Nova Scotia (NS) being identified with the largest gender-diverse population in Canada, limited literature examines non-medical GAC access. Through qualitative exploration via semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis, this study delved into NS gender-diverse individuals' experiences accessing GAC. Collaborative efforts with a gender-diverse advisory committee aided in refining questions and analyzing data. Findings highlight nuanced challenges including systemic barriers, societal biases, and provider misconceptions. Themes encompass diverse needs, rural isolation, support-seeking, and struggles with non-affirmative care. These results underscore the necessity for diverse GAC approaches and can inform policy, education, and support services to increase access to gender-inclusive care services.