AMA celebrates LGBTQIA+ community in Pride Month
As Pride Month draws to a close, the Australian Medical Association is proud to re-state its commitment and support for the LGBTQIA+ community and the medical professionals who provide care for them.
AMA President Professor Steve Robson said 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.
“We know many LGBTQIA+ Australians live happy and healthy lives, but they can experience unacceptable health inequities compared to those who don’t identify as LGBTQIA+. Many of these relate to high levels of overt and implicit discrimination against these communities and populations, both socially and within institutions.
“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.
“Principles of patient-centred care, consent, non-discrimination, bodily autonomy, and respect are central to healthcare for people who are LGBTQIA+.”
The AMA Position Statement on LGBTQIA+ Health 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.
Public acceptance of, support for, and celebration of, people who are LGBTQIA+, is a vital part of reducing discrimination against these communities and boosting health and wellbeing.
