Study published: Quality health services and health research tailored for sexual and gender minority forced migrants
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A recently published study by PhD student Rummage Isaac and researchers Maria Gottvall and Tommy Carlsson, all associated with U-CARE, presents new insights into health services for sexual and gender minority forced migrants. The study identifies open doors and open minds as key elements of quality post‑migration health services for this group.
Perspectives on accessible and affirming health services
The qualitative study included interviews with 17 sexual and gender minority forced migrants and 20 health professionals with experience of supporting the target population. Participants emphasised that health services must be accessible, welcoming, and free from discrimination. Language barriers, fear of stigma, and concerns about confidentiality were described as major obstacles to receiving adequate care.
A key finding was the importance of health professionals having sufficient awareness and knowledge to provide individualised support. Upholding privacy and safety were seen as essential, given the feelings of shame and traumatic experiences that persons in this population carry within them.
Strengthened inclusion and representation in health research
Participants stressed the need for future health research that meaningfully includes and collaborates with the target population. High levels of representation, intersectional nuance, and participatory approaches were identified as crucial factors for relevant and equitable research.
Overall, the findings underscore the need for health services and health research to adapt to the complex and intersecting needs of sexual and gender minority forced migrants.
Miro Anter
More information about the study
The study is part of the project A Safer Future, which is based at The Swedish Red Cross University. The project is led by Tommy Carlsson, senior lecturer and associate professor at The Swedish Red Cross University, and funded by Forte.
Link to the article
Read the full article, ‘Quality health services and health research tailored for sexual and gender minority forced migrants: perspectives of migrants with lived experience and health service providers’. It is written by Maria Gottvall, Rummage Isaac, Stella Kyaligamba Nankinga, Hanna Placid Solimena, and Tommy Carlsson.