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    Advancing LGBTQ+ Inclusion through Clinical Services in Cambodia

    In the bustling province of Battambang, Cambodia, the LGBTQ+ community encounters significant barriers, including enduring stigma, discrimination, and a lack of sensitivity and understanding among hea...

    In the bustling province of Battambang, Cambodia, the LGBTQ+ community encounters significant barriers, including enduring stigma, discrimination, and a lack of sensitivity and understanding among healthcare providers when accessing clinical services for their sexual and reproductive health needs.

    Additionally, transgender individuals face numerous legal and social discriminations due to the absence of explicit legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) within the employment, health, and education sectors. Navigating the healthcare system has left many within the community with fears and reluctance to seek care, leading to a decline in their overall well-being.

    Recognising the need to bridge the healthcare gap and build trust within the LGBTQ+ community over time, the Reproductive Health Association of Cambodia (RHAC), an IPPF Member Association, rises to the challenges. Under the RESPOND project, RHAC takes a proactive stance in dismantling stigma and improving access to clinical services for the LGBTQ+ community, especially transgender individuals in Battambang. Their multi-faceted approach encompasses education, advocacy, counselling, and specialised care. 

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    photo of the clinic

    In Battambang, Cambodia, RHAC clinic offers tailored clinical services for the LGBTIQ+ community

    In Battambang, Cambodia, RHAC clinic offers tailored clinical services for the LGBTIQ+ community

    A significant initiative involves implementing a clinical protocol for hormonal therapy and providing specialised care tailored to the needs of transgender individuals. Additionally, RHAC collaborates closely with local health departments to distribute essential items like PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and condoms and offers continuous HIV support services, including telemedicine and mobile clinics that effectively reach clients in underserved areas.

    Dr. Var Chivorn, RHAC’s Executive Director, emphasised the crucial role of the RESPOND project in integrating additional resources into existing systems, particularly within the Department of Health. “This integration strengthens and sustains RHAC’s clinical services, specifically tailored to meet the needs of the LGBTIQ+ community, with a particular focus on transgender clients. The project expands our capacity to provide comprehensive sexual and reproductive health (SRH) support, including transgender-friendly services such as hormonal therapy and HIV/STI care,” he said.

    In line with this commitment, RHAC collaborates with local community-based organisations to expand outreach in Battambang province and northern Cambodia, reaching more than 22,458 clients from key population groups, including sex workers and their clients, men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs and transgender individuals. This outreach not only promotes awareness of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) but also plays a pivotal role in informing and improving national programs, resulting in enhanced services and policies.

    photo of a youth leader engaging with a client

    Youth leaders actively engage in outreach programs

    Youth leaders actively engage in outreach programs

    Ban Veasna, a transgender client, expressed gratitude, stating, “Accessing clinical services in Battambang used to be stigmatising and uncomfortable. Thanks to the services at the RHAC clinic, I received counselling and STI (sexually transmitted infections) testing for the first time in a welcoming environment, significantly enhancing my health and sense of belonging.” 

    Reflecting on a similar experience, another client, Dep Vichea, expressed appreciation and stated, “The friendly and knowledgeable staff addressed all my concerns. Their encouraging words and comprehensive STI care have significantly improved my physical and mental health. I hope that everyone in my community will be able to experience such inclusive services.” 

    The path to equal healthcare access for Cambodia’s LGBTQ+ community remains challenging. Yet, through specialised care, multi-stakeholder collaboration and advocacy, they are breaking barriers and building trust, one healthcare visit at a time.

    For more information, contact:
    Malarvili Meganathan, Regional Communications, Voice & Media Advisor at [email protected].