Gippsland Primary Health Network (Gippsland PHN) is planning an initiative to increase greater LGBTIQA+ inclusion in general practice.
An Expression of Interest is calling for six Gippsland general practices interested in taking part in a training needs analysis followed by a small pilot program to evaluate viability of implementing a larger training program across Gippsland.
It is hoped the program will lead to greater LGBTIQA+ inclusivity and attendances at practices.
Gippsland PHN acting chief executive, Angela Jacob, said a recent LGBTIQA+ Priority Issues Paper showed LGBTIQA+ people were at higher risk of poor mental health and suicidal behaviours and needed improved and safe access to appropriate services with a well-trained workforce.
A survey conducted by Gippsland PHN in 2021 found that LGBTIQA+ people were less likely to:
have a usual health care professional;
see a doctor who was informed about any relevant specialist consultations or hospital stays, or;
perceive their health care professional as their centre of care.
“This pilot project will help us to understand if there are gaps to implementing LGBTIQA+ inclusive practices and provide guidance to address these gaps,” Mrs Jacob said.
“There is enormous diversity within the LGBTIQA+ communities and some carry an even greater burden, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, trans and gender diverse people (especially young trans people), and people with an intersex variation.
“We need to ensure that everyone in our community can access the right care at the right time.”
The EOI is open now and closes June 30, 2023. Two general practices from each of the three Gippsland PHN sub-regions (Wellington-East Gippsland, Baw Baw-Latrobe and South Gippsland – Bass Coast) will be selected to undertake the free training.
