Navigating Health Care: A Study on the Healthcare-seeking Behavior and Barriers Faced by the Transgender Community in Bhubaneswar, India

Background: In India, the transgender community encounters numerous health and well-being challenges. Discrimination, stigmatization, and a lack of acceptance often lead to suboptimal healthcare-seeking behaviors and limited healthcare access. This study investigates the factors influencing healthcare-seeking behavior and identifies barriers faced by transgender individuals. Methods: This descriptive phenomenological study focused on healthcare behaviors and barriers among transgender people. Fourteen participants, including eleven trans females and three trans males, were selected through purposive sampling. Participants were over 18 years of age and willing to participate. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews, with thematic analysis conducted using MAXQDA software. Results: Thematic analysis revealed four main themes: prevalent health issues, healthcare-seeking behaviors, barriers to healthcare access, and suggestions for healthcare system improvements. It was found that transgender individuals often hesitate to seek medical help, preferring home remedies and self-medication for minor illnesses and communicable diseases. Influences on their healthcare decisions included factors, like time, disease severity, trust in immunity, access ease, and reliance on others. Preventative measures noted were good personal hygiene, a healthy lifestyle, regular screenings, and spiritual practices. Conclusion: The study highlights a preference for nonprofessional healthcare approaches among transgender participants due to various influencing factors and identifies key areas for healthcare system improvement.