Comparative study of trans* healthcare models in Catalonia

Abstract

Stigma and discrimination against the trans* community have been shown to exacerbate mentalhealth issues among its members. In Catalonia, the Gender Identity Unit at the Clinic’s Hospitaltraditionally adhered to a biomedical model (BMM) of health for trans* individuals. However, afew years ago, the Transit Service introduced a biopsychosocial model (BPSM). This observationalcohort study explores the mental health effects in BMM compared to BPSM centers for trans*individuals.A web-based survey was employed to gather essential data, such as socio-demographics in-formation, and mental health outcomes. All data was analyzed from the BPSM group (n = 81) andthe BMM group (n = 21).The BPSM group exhibited statistically significant lower odds of experiencing emotionaldistress (p < 0.001). Other mental health outcomes indicated a trend toward lower odds in theBPSM group compared to the BMM group. Nevertheless, the prevalence of mental health prob-lems were much higher than expected in general popupation, both groups presented depressionrates of 35 % and 25.7 %, and anxiety rates of 45 % and 41.9 % (BMM and BPSM, respectively).Furthermore, these differences were also found when comparing to general population inCatalonia.Therefore, there is a pressing need to shift away from paternalistic medical roles and movetowards informed decision-making and progressive autonomy. Perceiving the trans* experienceas an individual desease, rather than an effect of societal norms on dissident bodies, has detri-mental effects for the community. Additionally, the scientific community should listen to thedemands of the trans* community and create space for trans* researchers in the production of knowledge.