Celebrating Inclusive Healthcare During Pride Month
This Pride Month, Kardinia Health Medical Centre is celebrating the power of inclusive, affirming healthcare and the importance of every person feeling safe, seen, and supported. We stand proudly alongside our LGBTQIA+ community and remain committed to providing respectful, compassionate care for all. Including transgender, gender diverse, and non-binary people, with access to inclusive healthcare and support services that affirm every identity and orientation.
The Healthcare Challenges Faced by Transgender, Gender Diverse, and Non-Binary Communities
Accessing quality transgender healthcare can be challenging. Many transgender, gender diverse, and non-binary people face discrimination, a lack of understanding from providers, or difficulty finding services that acknowledge and support their individual needs. These barriers can lead to delays in seeking care or avoiding the healthcare system altogether. At Kardinia Health Medical Centre in Geelong, we recognise these challenges and are committed to making healthcare safer and more accessible.
Our staff have received specialised training to help create an environment of inclusion and understanding for transgender healthcare and gender diverse members of the Geelong community. Kardinia Health is recognised as a leader in providing open access to care for those who may have previously faced barriers. It strives to ensure every person is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of gender identity or expression.
Gender Affirming Care
We proudly offer gender affirming care, which may include assistance in exploring gender identity, linking to peer supports, and accessing medical care tailored to individual needs. Our general practitioners and healthcare professionals work under an informed consent model, which may involve support in accessing hormone therapy or other gender-affirming medical care.
Our commitment extends beyond our medical clinic. We collaborate with community groups and organisations across Geelong, including GASP, a City of Greater Geelong initiative that provides safe spaces for young people. We also work with adult groups, family support networks, and other local healthcare providers to help improve education and expand access to inclusive services in the region.
Comprehensive Sexual Health Services
Our Belmont medical clinic, in collaboration with the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, also offers comprehensive sexual health services with a strong focus on inclusivity and compassionate care for everyone regardless of sexual preference, gender identity, ethnicity, or financial status.
Our experienced team provides routine STI testing and treatment, inclusive services for sex workers, HIV prevention options including Pre-Exposure (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), and sexual health consultations tailored to individual needs.
Your sexual health is an important part of your overall well-being, and we are here to support you with expert care in an environment where you feel safe, seen, and respected.
Accessing transgender healthcare at Kardinia Health
All consultations are delivered in a confidential, non-judgmental, multidisciplinary setting at our Geelong medical centre in Belmont. While referrals from other health professionals are welcomed, they are not required; patients can access services directly.
If you or someone you know is seeking inclusive, supportive healthcare, we encourage you to make an appointment with our friendly team at Kardinia Health.
