The experiences of transgender and nonbinary individuals in general practice in Denmark, with a focus on ‘safer space’

In Denmark, transgender and nonbinary (TNB) individuals must consult their General Practitioner (GP) to access gender-affirming healthcare (GAHC). TNB individuals report unmet health needs and higher incidences of mental health challenges compared to cisgender peers. Cultural safety, involving a ‘safe space,’ could reduce healthcare inequities. This study aims to identify the factors, according to TNB individuals in Denmark, that create, maintain, and disrupt a ‘safe space’ in general practice. Twelve semi-structured qualitative interviews with TNB individuals aged 20 to 43 were conducted, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using Systematic Text Condensation. Participants felt unsafe with GPs due to negative experiences related to being transgender, leading to healthcare avoidance. They valued GPs who respected chosen names, showed interest in transgender care, and were upfront about limitations. A significant issue was lack of GP knowledge on transgender healthcare, often requiring participants to educate their GPs. Participants emphasised the need for doctors to avoid assumptions about patients based on gender identity. Participants did not believe that a ′safe space’ can be realised but wish for a ‘safer space’. Trans individuals feel unsafe when consulting their GP due to past and present negative experiences, which leads to healthcare avoidance. A ‘safer space’ encompasses; respecting chosen names, showing an interest in transgender care, listening and meeting patients on their terms. The study highlights the importance of educating GPs on respectful interactions, suggesting that adopting the concept of a ‘safer space’ as a medical term could improve healthcare for TNB individuals.