King's College London

This project focussed on palliative care experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people and sex workers in Zimbabwe. These populations are described as ‘key populations’ in public health, and such populations are considered as having higher risks of particular conditions and poorer health outcomes. In countries that criminalise same-sex sexual acts and unions, such as Zimbabwe, healthcare may be particularly hard to navigate for LGBTI people, as both patients and professionals may be concerned about legal consequences.

The topics covered included experiences of accessing health and palliative care, how sexual identity was included in healthcare consultations, and experiences of partners or significant others being involved in healthcare. In total, 72 participants took part, including 60 people from key populations, and 12 health professionals.

The results demonstrated that although palliative care professionals in Zimbabwe were familiar with the person-centred approach that is central to palliative care, applying this to key populations was rare and challenging. This challenge was more pronounced for LGBTI patients than sex workers. The criminalisation of key populations linked to delayed help seeking due to anticipated discrimination, inconsistent physical and spiritual care where it was sought, and discrimination and indignity during serious illness and at end of life. 

Aim

To examine the healthcare and palliative care experiences of LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex) people and sex workers in Zimbabwe.

Resources

4 recommendations for palliative healthcare services and staff caring for LGBTI people and sex workers in Zimbabwe
Drawing on the findings of the present study, and given the risks for individuals associated with these key populations, 4 recommendations have been developed for use by palliative healthcare services and staff. 

Partners

The ACCESSCare-Z project was supported by colleagues at GALZ.