The Coordination of the São Paulo State Program for STD/Aids establishes the first ambulatory for transvestites and transsexuals in the country

Abstract

The Coordination of the São Paulo State Program for STD/Aids, linked to the State Secretary of Health of São Paulo, established in June 2009, within its premises, the first ambulatory of health in Brazil aimed exclusively to transvestites and transsexuals. The service is a national reference, with specialized professionals, trained to deal with difficulties and specific demands from these social groups. The ambulatory provides specialized service in urology, proctology and endocrinology (hormonal therapy), evaluation and guidance of those who are interested in silicone prosthesis and in sexual reassignment surgery. The unit is responsible for the preparation of clinical protocols, for the development and evaluation of technologies and assistance models and to promote activities to integrate social movements as well as to provide training to health professionals in their actuation area. Sexual orientation and gender identity are determinant factors for health, not only because they imply sexual and social specific practices, but also because they may mean the daily confrontation against prejudices and human rights violations. This service was created to make easier the access of vulnerable populations to the Brazilian public health system (Sistema Único de Saúde – SUS), granting to them the right of health.