HMC hosts training session to reduce stigma against transgender people living with HIV
PESHAWAR: Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC) hosted an interactive training session for its healthcare facility staff aimed at reducing stigma and discrimination against transgender people living with HIV (PLHIV) and promoting inclusive healthcare practices.
The training session was conducted by Arsiha Rafique, an instructor from Blue Veins, who engaged HMC healthcare personnel through an interactive lecture focused on respectful, equitable and stigma-free healthcare services for transgender patients.
During the session, healthcare staff were sensitised to the challenges faced by transgender people living with HIV and the importance of ensuring that every patient receives healthcare without discrimination. The training emphasised respectful communication, equal treatment and the creation of a safe and supportive environment for marginalised communities.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve healthcare access and outcomes for transgender people living with HIV across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The programme focuses on capacity building, peer-led support, community engagement and policy advocacy to address barriers that can prevent vulnerable communities from accessing essential healthcare services.
Through such training programmes, healthcare institutions aim to strengthen the capacity of medical and support staff to provide services that are sensitive to the needs of marginalised patients. Organisers said that reducing stigma within healthcare settings can encourage more people to seek timely medical care and continue treatment.
At the conclusion of the session, certificates were distributed among participating healthcare facility staff in recognition of their active participation and successful completion of the training.
The HMC administration reaffirmed its commitment to creating an inclusive healthcare environment where all patients can access medical services with dignity, respect and without discrimination. The administration also emphasised the importance of continued awareness and capacity-building initiatives to promote equitable healthcare for vulnerable and marginalised communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
