Rethinking access for minority segments in rural health: An LGBTQI+ perspective

This paper nuances the notion of access when considering minority segments and their use of health care services in rural communities. It argues that access needs to be considered as both the availability and the perceived ability to use a service without fear of retribution. By taking such a stance, this paper addresses the inequality in LGBTQI+ care in rural communities. It claims equitable care can only be achieved if the appropriate environment is created where individuals can disclose their identity and seek appropriate treatment. Given the complexity surrounding rural communities, their prevailing culture and perceptions, as well as stigmas and poor health outcome, a multilevel approach is taken to identify implications. It is argued that to address the individual and systemic barriers to equitable health care, a human rights-centred approach to health needs to be adopted considering the individual, the community and the health system.