Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1997. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
HIV/AIDS transgender support group: improving care delivery and creating a community.
Int Conf AIDS. 1996 Jul 7-12;11(1):421 (abstract no. Tu.D.2953). Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE MED/96923081 Grimaldi JM; Jacobs J; The New York Hospital, Center for Special Studies, New York, NY, USA.; Fax: (212)746-8415.
Abstract:
Issues: Transgender patients treated at our large urban HIV/AIDS primary care clinic presented with poor records of medical compliance and stated feelings of isolation and discrimination. A support group was developed to address the needs of this unique population. Project: The HIV transgender support group recruited male-to-female pre-operative transsexual outpatients who were socially and emotionally isolated, and some of whom were sex workers. The group provided a safe environment for patients to give mutual support, develop communication skills, and address concerns of prejudice. The group educated each other on safer sex, challenges of condom use, and the risk of physical violence from sex customers. The group leader created a supportive environment for patients, who had experienced abandonment and rejection from family. Results: The HIV transgender group met 83 sessions and involved 12 members throughout the course of 2 years. Group members initially were unable to help one another due to their frustration with societal prejudice. The group leader assumed an active role to foster caregiving and communication skills. Transsexual patients' stated a dramatic increase in trust for their health care providers over the 2 years. The number of clinic appointments missed by all group members decreased from 64% in 1994 to 12% in 1995. The group developed their own community within the clinic, shared HIV and transgender information, provided mutual support, and fought discrimination. Universal concerns identified by the group included: the effort to maintain female physical appearance during HIV illness progression; the challenge of condom use to female self perception; and the protection of one's gender selection during hospitalization and funeral arrangements. The group members created a videotape of their stories in order to educate health care providers on their needs and in order to reach out to isolated transsexuals in the community. Lessons Learned: A formerly isolated noncompliant subgroup of patients was able to create a community of strength and support through a culturally sensitive support group. This increased their medical compliance and enhanced their self-esteem.
Keywords: *Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/THERAPY *HIV Infections/THERAPY *Social Support *Transsexualism 970130
M9714365
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1997. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
