The Indian state of Telangana opened 33 Maitri Clinics for trans healthcare on December 2, with the goal of improving access to gender-affirming services across the state.
These clinics, inspired by the transgender clinic at Osmania General Hospital (OGH) in Hyderabad, aim to provide comprehensive care, including hormone therapy, pre-surgical support, and psychological services.
OGH’s clinic, which opened in 2023, serves as a model for inclusive healthcare in the country, and similar facilities are also operating at Warangal’s MGM Hospital and Gandhi Medical Hospital.
In addition, a ‘sensitisation’ programme for medical officers was held at OGH to ensure healthcare workers understand the complexities of treating transgender patients.
While local members of the trans community welcomed the initiative, they stressed the need for more representation and surgical services, which currently remain limited.
The state is also discussing a transgender volunteer scheme, with the Hyderabad police considering accepting trans people for police duties, aiming to further promote inclusion in public services.