inQlusive Reach is a British Columbia–based community care platform that supports the 2SLGBTQIA+ community with identity-inclusive and gender-affirming care and support services. The platform connects clients with safe, trusted, and vetted 2SLGBTQIA+ community members or allies, called reach ambassadors, that can be hired for companionship, travel assistance, housekeeping, personal care, and other nonmedical support services.
The organization works alongside clinical care practices to help patients feel empowered and supported to live independently, and follow through on their care plans.
Why this matters
Many 2SLGBTQIA+ community members—particularly older adults and those who are more vulnerable—face barriers that directly affect health outcomes and continuity of care, including:
- Isolation and loneliness, especially for the aging who are more likely to be living alone.
- Fear and mistrust of health care systems, often rooted in past discrimination.
- Lack of safe support to attend appointments, including transportation and advocacy.
- Pre- and post-surgical support gaps, including gender-transition related care where patients must demonstrate adequate home and recovery support.
- Absence of family or chosen family, leaving patients without adequate support systems.
These barriers can delay treatment, complicate recovery, and increase strain on already-limited clinical resources. Reach Ambassadors can assist with:
- Appointment accompaniment and transportation coordination.
- Non-medical pre- and post-procedure support.
- Recovery check-ins and everyday assistance.
- Companionship and social connection to reduce isolation.
- Access to a community of safe, trusted, and inclusive support for those without family or adequate support systems.
Physicians can help their patients by:
- Raising awareness about the platform with patients who would benefit from safe, identity-inclusive, gender-affirming care and support at home.
- Sharing information about the platform and its services within their clinic and network.
- Partnering during home care needs, especially for post-surgical or complex procedures.
- Helping shape inclusive systems by recognizing and addressing the social determinants affecting 2SLGBTQIA+ patients.
Patients can access these services via www.inQlusiveReach.ca [2] or by calling 1 888 256-0007.
Physicians or their team members are welcome to reach out for further information or to discuss collaboration opportunities to connect 2SLGBTQIA+ patients with the platform and safe, trusted, inclusive nonmedical community care options built specifically for them.
—Colin Ratushniak
Co-Founder, inQlusive Reach Inc.