Penelope Strauss1, Sam Winter2, Angus Cook3, Ashleigh Lin4. 1. BA, MPH, Research Fellow, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, WA. 2. BSc, PGDE, MEd, PhD, Associate Professor and Head of Sexology Team, School of Public Health, Curtin University, WA. 3. MBChB, PhD, MBiostats, GradDipHlthEcon, Professor (Epidemiology), School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, WA. 4. BPsych (Hons), MPsych (Clinical Neuropsychology), PhD, Program Head, Mental Health and Youth, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, WA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: General practitioners (GPs) do not typically receive education regarding gender diversity despite the increasing number of trans, gender diverse and non‑binary (TGDNB) patients presenting to general practice. It is important for GPs, as the first point of entry into the healthcare system, to provide a safe and affirming environment for TGDNB patients to reduce ill-health later in life. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to clarify how GPs can improve their care of TGDNB patients to be more inclusive and thereby promote a positive relationship with the health system, assist in gender-affirming care and reduce illness within this population. The authors provide simple suggestions for clinical practice and encourage clinicians to seek professional development in this rapidly developing field. DISCUSSION: Care of TGDNB patients extends beyond gender-affirming care to include mental health and community supports to ensure the overall wellbeing of the patient. Central to this care is respect of the patient's gender identity and expression.
BACKGROUND: General practitioners (GPs) do not typically receive education regarding gender diversity despite the increasing number of trans, gender diverse and non‑binary (TGDNB) patients presenting to general practice. It is important for GPs, as the first point of entry into the healthcare system, to provide a safe and affirming environment for TGDNB patients to reduce ill-health later in life. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to clarify how GPs can improve their care of TGDNB patients to be more inclusive and thereby promote a positive relationship with the health system, assist in gender-affirming care and reduce illness within this population. The authors provide simple suggestions for clinical practice and encourage clinicians to seek professional development in this rapidly developing field. DISCUSSION: Care of TGDNB patients extends beyond gender-affirming care to include mental health and community supports to ensure the overall wellbeing of the patient. Central to this care is respect of the patient's gender identity and expression.