Queensland Government pauses gender-affirming care for trans young people

blue tile with text that says in the news | public healthcare should be free from discrimination

Queensland Government pauses gender-affirming care for trans young people

blue tile with text that says in the news | public healthcare should be free from discrimination

This week, the Queensland Government announced a pause on access to stage one and stage two hormone therapies for new patients under 18 in the state’s public health system. The decision has raised alarm among healthcare professionals, including the Australian Medical Association and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, who warn that it will place already vulnerable young people at greater risk.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) strongly supports equitable access to evidence-based healthcare and advocates for policies that ensure all individuals receive the care they need to thrive.

Pausing treatment for new patients will have a detrimental impact on young trans and gender-diverse people in Queensland.

APA National President Rik Dawson said the announcement and subsequent debate have created uncertainty and concern for trans and gender-diverse young people and their families, particularly those who cannot afford private healthcare alternatives. He underscored the importance of ensuring continued access to appropriate care.

“Government must strive to safeguard the principle that public healthcare should be inclusive, evidence-based, and free from discrimination,” Dr Dawson said.

The APA also recognises that this decision disproportionately affects trans and gender-diverse young people in regional and rural areas as well as young people with disabilities, who already face additional barriers to healthcare access.

For further information on the APA’s commitment to inclusive healthcare, visit our LGBTQIA+ Hub

 
 

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