Designated facility for local LGBTQI community launched

The Department of Health has launched a centre for the LGBTQI+ members to exclusively access specialised care within the Itireleng Clinic in Dobsonville, Soweto.

The key populations centre will be tailored to meet the needs of key population groups.

“All citizens are equal and we don’t want discrimination at our health community centres hence we have been identifying specific areas for every region where they will not be turned away or questioned about their sexuality or preferences.

“That’s why here it’s a home for LGBTQI. This is their clinic and its primary work is dedicated to being an inspiration for other institutions and communities to work towards creating a more equitably and inclusive healthcare system.”

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According to the MEC for Health, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, the centre will prioritise workshops and training of staff to equip healthcare nurses with the necessary skills and understanding to address the unique challenges faced by the groups.

“The centre will contribute to a deeper understanding of the health care needs of vulnerabilities and barriers. This research and data from these centres will serve as a foundation for developing targeted interventions and policies that act against any discrimination faced by key populations in our health system,” said the MEC.

She added that the establishment of the centre was vital in fostering a safe environment for vulnerable groups and encouraging individuals to seek care on time.

“Through the various centres of excellence, we can contribute to breaking down barriers producing stigma, ensuring that every individual receives the health care they deserve regardless of their background and circumstances.”

The Gauteng province will have a total of five key population centres for each district, including Vosloorus, Tshwane, and West Rand.

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Activist, Dr Thulani Mhlongo who founded the Soweto HIV/Aids Counsellors Association (SOHACA) which became one of the key players pushing legislation for LGBTQI nearly a decade ago, said the centre was a long time coming.

One of their recommendations at the time was the training and sensitising of healthcare professionals and establishments of health centres.

“It’s been a long journey to getting to a place which we envisioned, especially when it comes to accessing health care institutions.

“Such interventions show that indeed we are getting there. We laud the MEC for her continued work in creating an inclusive healthcare system,” said Mhlongo.

“It is important that we continue teaching communities and government in terms of our needs. We are happy that truly our recommendations are still being implemented and we are seeing these centres in our communities where the LGBTQI can access these services freely.”

The Department of Health will launch the last key population centre in Sedibeng next month.