India's first transgender OPD inaugurated at Delhi's RML hospital

In a step toward inclusivity and healthcare accessibility, Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital inaugurated India's first transgender Outpatient Department (OPD) today.

The inaugural ceremony was led by Professor Dr Ajay Shukla, Director of RML Hospital, who emphasized the importance of providing equitable healthcare services to the transgender community.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Ajay Shukla highlighted the challenges faced by transgender individuals when seeking medical care. "Transgender individuals were facing numerous difficulties in accessing our hospital's services," he noted.

"Their numbers in the hospital were negligible, largely due to discomfort and the fear of discrimination. Hence, on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, we have initiated this special OPD dedicated to their healthcare needs." One of the key features of this initiative is the provision of a dedicated restroom facility for transgender patients within the hospital premises.

This restroom has been designed to ensure that transgender individuals feel comfortable and do not face any difficulties during their visits to the hospital. Transgender individuals present at the inauguration expressed their delight and gratitude for this pioneering step. Members of the transgender community stated, "We are overjoyed with this initiative. Today's inauguration feels like a special gift to us on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday. Previously, we often hesitated to come to the hospital."