Background: Lesotho faces significant challenges in providing equitable healthcare services to LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly regarding HIV prevention and treatment. The country has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates globally, with marginalized populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, experiencing heightened vulnerability due to systemic stigma and discrimination.
Aim: The study assessed the barriers LGBTQ+ individuals face in accessing healthcare services including HIV prevention and treatment due to stigma and discrimination in Lesotho.
Setting: The study was conducted in three districts of Lesotho which are Maseru, Leribe, and Mokhotlong.
Methods: The study cross-sectional, descriptive, qualitative research study utilized semi-structured interviews with LGBTQ+ individuals and healthcare providers to explore the interplay between stigma, mental health, and HIV vulnerabilities.
Results: The findings reveal a complex relationship between stigma and health outcomes, where social marginalization leads to increased HIV vulnerabilities among LGBTQ+ populations. Discriminatory attitudes within healthcare settings discourage individuals from seeking major HIV preventive services, ultimately impacting public health efforts to control the epidemic.
Conclusion: Addressing the barriers faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Lesotho requires a multifaceted approach such as training for healthcare providers on LGBTQ+ issues, and integrating sexual and reproductive health services into community outreach programs. By fostering an inclusive healthcare environment, can enhance access to HIV prevention and treatment services, improving overall public health outcomes in Lesotho.
Contribution: The findings and recommendation of the study could contribute to a better health outcome for LGBTQ+ individuals in Lesotho.
Keywords: Barriers to healthcare access, LGBTQ+ individuals, HIV prevention and treatment, stigma, discrimination, Lesotho.
Citation: Segale, J.N, & Tjirongo (2025). Barriers LGBTQ+ Individuals Face in Accessing Healthcare Services Including HIV Prevention and Treatment Due to Stigma and Discrimination in Lesotho. J Medical Case Repo 7(1):1-9. DOI : https://doi.org/10.47485/2767-5416.1100