Challenges in sexual and reproductive healthcare access for queer people in Gauteng, South Africa

Background: Sexual and reproductive healthcare services and needs (SRHS) are essential for improving overall health and well-being. Queer people face obstacles not only in obtaining and receiving SRHS but also in the provision of these services by healthcare professionals (HCPs). Aim: The study explored and described the challenges experienced by HCPs and queer people when providing and accessing SRHS in the Gauteng province. Setting: We collected data from seven district public hospitals and two non-governmental organisation clinics that focussed on queer-related healthcare in the Gauteng province, South Africa. Methods: This was an explorative-descriptive qualitative study, in which we conducted 55 one-on-one interviews. The researchers employed purposive sampling to select all HCPs, and respondent-driven sampling for all queer people who participated in the study. Results: Six main themes emerged, demonstrating that HCPs and queer people faced similar, contrasting and differing challenges when rendering and receiving SRHS. These themes include HCPs’ belief that queer people are afraid, while queer people perceive HCPs as having negative attitudes and acting as gatekeepers. HCPs expressed surprise and confusion regarding gender identity, healthcare disparities and familial issues, which highlighted their feelings of incompetence in providing queer-related healthcare and their engagement with queer people as a barrier. Conclusion: Policies need to be strengthened to ensure inclusivity in the healthcare sector, thus, addressing SRHS for queer people. Contribution: The findings from this study have the potential to bridge discrepancies and address the challenges faced by both HCPs and queer people through policy development.