Currently, Mitr Clinics are operational in the cities of Thane, Pune, and Hyderabad
SafeZindagi, an online platform funded by USAID and PEPFAR and implemented through Project ACCELERATE, launched a video featuring Miss Trans India 2020-Shaine Soni; Trans Health & Rights Activist-Amruta Soni, and Trans Men Activist & Public Health Specialist-Dr Anmol Singh.
Mitr Clinics are transgender clinics in the country that are run by transgender community members for transgender people. The clinics offer solution to transgender people with in-clinic services such as HIV/STI counselling & screening, peer-based psychosocial support, gender affirmation & legal/ social protection support along with additional referrals and linkages-based services, including ARVs, Mental Health Support, Gender Dysphoria screening & counselling among others. The clinics have trained counsellors and medical officers to walk people through the transitioning process and offer a warm and caring environment for them to feel a sense of belonging and pride. Currently, Mitr Clinics are operational in the cities of Thane, Pune, and Hyderabad.
In the video, Sushant Divgikar says, “Healthcare is for everyone. Mitr Clinics being the torch bearers are helping the youth by creating safe spaces. Mitr Clinics have trained medical counsellors who guide the youth without judging them. The clinics have counsellors and healthcare professionals who counsel individuals about the right set of solutions.”
The video features conversations on challenges of transitioning, living with HIV, need for attention towards sexual and reproductive health, and living through taboos and discrimination by the society. The guests are seen sharing ups and downs from their journeys and talking about ways to face the hurdles.
Soni highlighted the need for a single window solution, like Mitr Clinics, that help the community get educated, counselled, and get access to basic services. Talking about the need to build a strong community.
Dr Singh said, “It is the community that helps build a better life with sound mental health at the core. We need to work together and collaborate to guide the youth standing in silos and facing difficulties.”
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