In what is being called a B.C. first, Island Health has launched a pilot program looking to improve the physical, psychological and cultural safety and overall comfort of 2SLGBTQIA+ people.

Located at primarily at Greater Victoria鈥檚 Royal Jubilee Hospital (RJH), the 2SLGBTQIA+ liaison nurse program ensures nurses are on hand to provide emotional support and health-care advocacy and refer individuals to community and social resources.

The nurses can also provide useful information and facilitate connections to gender-affirming care.

鈥淢any people within S2LGBTQIA+ communities have had negative experiences with healthcare systems and this can make them anxious about getting the care they need,鈥� Island Health said in a statement. 鈥淲e鈥檙e working to understand more about how to make health care better for everyone and to ensure it feels right for people of all genders. You have a right to receive the same care that would be provided to people who are not 2SLGBTQIA+.鈥�

The program is also supporting people at nearby Victoria General Hospital when needed.

The hospital-based service was also launched to reduce barriers for 2SLGBTQIA+ patients, clients and families and facilitate access to health services.

ALSO READ: