AMA support for LGBTQIA+ patients
At the end of Pride Month, the AMA has re-stated its support for the LGBTQIA+ community and the medical professionals who provide care for them.
The AMA unequivocally supports the health and welfare of people who identify as LGBTQIA+, which includes trans and gender diverse people seeking and undergoing gender-affirming care.
“We accept, support and celebrate people who are LGBTQIA+ and in this pride month we are calling for an end to discrimination against this community and the health care workers who support them,” AMA President Professor Steve Robson said.
“The AMA has a very strong position on LGBTQIA+ health and wellbeing. We know gender-affirming care is linked with a range of positive health outcomes for people who are trans and gender diverse.”
The AMA Position Statement on LGBTQIA+ says being LGBTQIA+ is normal, healthy, and representative of the diversity in human sexuality, gender identity, and sex characteristics.
With shared decision making a key part of the doctor-patient relationship, the statement says people who are LGBTQIA+ thrive in health care environments where they feel safe, affirmed, respected and understood.
If you are an LGBTQIA+ doctor, doctor in training or medical student in need of support, Drs4Drs is a confidential resource tailored to your unique experiences.
We are proud to offer a dedicated free and confidential LGBTQIA+ mental health support service. This can be accessed via 1300 Dr4Drs (1300 374 377) by asking to talk to a LGBTQIA+ representative.
State and territory Doctors’ Health Services also offer health advisory services, staffed by GPs and other specialists trained in doctors’ health.
