At ZS, we believe in healthcare for all, which is why we’ve again partnered with the MIST Foundation, this time as a knowledge partner to help them produce the “Uniting Diversity Policy Brief: Shaping the Future of Legal Equality for LGBTQIA+ in India.” The brief aims to encourage an ongoing dialogue for equality and justice and be a resource for policymakers—or anyone working for a better, more equitable future for all. “Too often, the LGBTQIA+ community in India finds its vibrant colors muted by legal and societal complexities,” the brief reads, going on to say that its aim is “to shed light on these complexities, to unravel the threads of law and practice that impact LGBTQIA+ lives.”
Healthcare and the LGBTQIA+ population in India
The brief looks at the spectrum of experiences that LGBTQIA+ individuals face in India, covering everything from reservations about coming out in the workplace to challenges discussing specific needs with healthcare and insurance providers. Almost a quarter (21%) of the respondents surveyed told us they weren’t comfortable discussing their healthcare needs with providers. And 11% more told us they were only somewhat comfortable. This lack of comfort leaves people unable to get necessary care.
It also reflects some notable gaps in healthcare that specifically affect the LGBTQIA+ community. The brief outlines key barriers to healthcare that are imperative to remedy—specifically around mental health needs, which was found to be the highest priority among the LGBTQIA+ individuals surveyed. Due to social stigma and discrimination, LGBTQIA+ individuals often face higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicide. Additional areas key for prioritization include HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, sexual health services, gender-affirming healthcare and substance abuse treatment.
ZS’s ongoing partnership with the MIST Foundation
ZS collected data for the brief through surveys; holding conclave research at major Indian cities throughout the months of April and May; and through secondary research available in other literature, briefs and articles. Using Alter Igo and other gen AI tools, ZS was able to take information gathering a step further, coming up with insights that may not have been apparent through traditional means.
It’s part of an ongoing relationship between ZS and the MIST Foundation to improve the lives of the LGBTQIA+ community in India. Earlier this year, ZS worked with the foundation to extend access to PrEP and HIV medication in India—an effort that seeks to remedy one of the major gaps indicated by the survey. On this subject, the brief states: “The combination of PrEP, PEP, and HIV treatment represents a comprehensive approach to HIV prevention and care within the LGBTQIA+ community, contributing significantly to ending the HIV epidemic.”
Serving the communities where we live
India’s LGBTQIA+ community faces significant healthcare challenges due to social stigma, discrimination and a lack of awareness among providers, which is why we see it as an imperative to get it right. ZS’s rich diversity is part of what makes the firm strong. And fostering inclusivity is written into its DNA. Our employee-led community groups like Pride@ZS are what make meaningful work like this possible. To learn more about the work we do in our communities and stay up to date how ZSers are making an impact, visit the Life@ZS blog.
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