The current health system is failing transgender and gender-diverse people, leaving many without access to essential life-saving healthcare services.

According to a study published by the Mental Health Review Journal, 67% of transitioning people thought about suicide pre-transition and only 3% postmedical transition (Bailey et al., 2014). This distressing statistic proves that gender-affirming care saves lives.

Furthermore, geographic location plays a significant role in access to these services. For example, rural areas often lack specialized clinics or knowledgeable providers, forcing individuals to travel long distances for their medical needs. Additionally, in Canada, 28% of transgender people, reported having postponed or not gotten necessary medical care for fear of discrimination (Yurcaba, 2021). For those who do seek out medical care, 54% of transgender individuals are forced to take on the responsibility of educating their healthcare provider on transgender issues as reported by the Ontario HIV Treatment Network (2014).

We are calling on Canadian health authorities to increase efforts towards improving the quality and accessibility of gender-affirming care across all provinces and territories. This includes comprehensive training for healthcare professionals on transgender health issues as well as expanding services in underserved areas. The right to adequate healthcare should not be determined by one's identity or location. It's time we ensure that all Canadians have equal access to high-quality, compassionate medical care regardless of their gender identity.

Sign this petition and act now if you believe in equal rights and accessible healthcare for all Canadians - because everyone deserves quality medical attention when they need it most.

https://mentalhealthcommission.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Transgender-people-and-suicide-fact-sheet.pdf​

https://www.ohtn.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/RR119_transgender_barriers.pdf​

https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-health-and-wellness/nearly-half-trans-people-mistreated-medical-providers-report-finds-rcna1695