Maharashtra's first ward for transgenders opens

The inaugurated ward at GT Hospital

Maharashtra's first ward for transgenders started at the Gokuldas Tejpal (GT) Hospital in Mumbai on Friday. The government-run hospital has 30 beds to provide health facilities to transgenders. As per hospital officials, whenever a transgender patient comes for treatment they want to get admitted and treated in the women's ward, but female patients hesitate. In the male ward, transgenders are uncomfortable.

The heads of units and consultants have formulated the SOPs to run the ward. The ward is no 13 with a capacity of 30 beds, gender-neutral toilets, an examination room, and a dressing room for the patients. More than 150 staff have been trained to ensure that transgenders do not face discrimination. If patients do not have an identity card, they can submit a written self-declaration form at the hospital. The unique feature in this form is a mention of what the patient wants to be addressed as - which gender, or name.

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"Transgenders will also be screened for sero surveillance and mental health status. Addiction will also be addressed during the hospital stay," said Dr B G Chikhalkar, superintendent of GT hospital. A member of the National Transgender Committee, Zainab Patel said, "The government has taken a good step. There are 70,000 transgenders in Mumbai while the number in the whole country is 5 lakh, more such wards should be started. State Medical Education Minister Girish Mahajan said, "A dedicated ward for transgenders will be started in Pune's Sassoon Hospital as well. There will also be a facility of 30 beds. The government has plans to start 10-bed wards in other hospitals as well."