Equality and Equity in the Canadian Prairies: Understanding the Needs, Challenges, and Experiences of LGBTQ2S+ People in Manitoba’s Healthcare System

This study aims to determine the equity of access to healthcare for LGBTQ2S+ individuals in Manitoba. While Canada is often perceived as LGBTQ2S+ friendly, Manitoba’s vast rural areas pose unique challenges. The prairie landscape, combined with the specific healthcare needs of the queer community, raises concerns about equitable access to healthcare services. This chapter encompasses an analysis of legal documents and healthcare system statistics in Manitoba. It delineates the differences in experiences and needs among queer men, queer women, and trans and nonbinary individuals. The study reveals notable instances of heterocism and cissexism, as well as persistent discrimination despite the existence of protective legislation. Additionally, there is a notable difficulty in accessing HIV tests or queer-friendly healthcare services, with extended waiting times. The findings underscore the pressing necessity for targeted recommendations to improve healthcare access and equity for LGBTQ2S+ communities in Manitoba.