Update

UNAIDS Deputy Executive Director visits specialized health facility for transvestites and transsexuals

26 February 2014

Brazil is among the leaders in ensuring HIV services reach all people. Created in June of 2009 the Ambulatory Service of Integral Health for Transvestites and Transsexuals is a unique centre in the country.

The centre offers comprehensive care including cardiology, endocrinology, urology and gynaecology, as well as HIV testing and treatment. The facility also provides mental health support, legal counselling and orientation services for income generation.

UNAIDS Deputy Executive Director, Jan Beagle visited the clinic and also spent time with civil society at the Forum of NGOs of São Paulo.

The Forum provides a space for NGOs working on AIDS related issues to share experiences and define common strategies to keep AIDS in the political agenda at national, state and municipal levels.

Quotes

"The service was created because we already had a culture and expertise to work with vulnerable populations. We also discuss with staff in other services to raise their awareness of the special needs. We also have roundtables to sensitize the staff."

Judit Busanello, Director of the Ambulatory Service of Integral Health for Transvestites and Transsexuals

"This clinic and the Forum are examples of how we can reach out to people who might otherwise be left behind. I am especially pleased to be able to highlight these success stories in the lead up to Zero Discrimination Day on 1 March."

UNAIDS Deputy Executive Director, Jan Beagle