LGBTQIA+ Friendly GP in Wollongong
Illawarra General Practice aims to provide respectful, inclusive health care for LGBTQIA+ people and families from Wollongong and across the Illawarra. Our GPs recognise the diversity of gender identities, sexualities, bodies, lived experiences and cultural backgrounds, and we want every patient to feel welcome, heard and supported.
You're welcome to tell us your name and pronouns, and to share as much or as little about yourself as you're comfortable with. Consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card.
Our approach to inclusive care
Our GPs follow their professional codes of conduct and aim to provide care that is culturally safe and person-centred. That means not making assumptions about your gender, sexuality, relationships or body, and addressing stigma or discrimination in health care when it arises.
We meet all legal and ethical requirements, including NSW laws prohibiting conversion practices, and we support the right of intersex people to make informed decisions about their own health care.
How our GPs can help
General health care
LGBTQIA+ patients can see our GPs for any health concern, from everyday illness and health checks to chronic conditions, vaccinations and preventive care.
Sexual health care and STI testing
Our GPs provide confidential sexual health care, including STI testing and treatment, and advice tailored to your body and the sex you have. Your GP can talk with you about how often testing may be recommended for you.
Your GP can also discuss HIV prevention options, including PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and vaccines such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B and HPV where recommended.
If you think you may have been exposed to HIV in the past 72 hours, PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) may be an option. Contact us as soon as possible during opening hours, or go to the Emergency Department at Wollongong Hospital, as PEP needs to be started quickly.
Screening for trans and gender-diverse people
Screening recommendations depend on your body, not your gender. For example, people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 are recommended to have cervical screening, including trans men and non-binary people with a cervix. Your GP can talk through which screening is relevant to you, and self-collection may be an option for cervical screening.
Mental health support
Your GP can provide confidential support with anxiety, depression, stress, relationships and other mental health concerns. Where appropriate, your GP can prepare a mental health treatment plan and refer you to a psychologist, including practitioners experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ people.
Gender-affirming care: guidance and referrals
If you're exploring your gender or considering gender-affirming care, your GP can talk with you about your goals and options, provide general health care and support, and refer you to services experienced in gender-affirming care.
Connecting you with community support
Your GP can help you find LGBTQIA+ community organisations, peer support and other services that may be helpful.
Your privacy and confidentiality
Everything you discuss with your GP is confidential and handled in line with our privacy policy. Your information is only shared with others with your consent, or where the law requires it.
LGBTQIA+ support services
- QLife: free, anonymous LGBTQIA+ peer support and referral on 1800 184 527
- ACON: NSW's LGBTQ+ health organisation, offering health information and support services
- Lifeline: 24-hour crisis support on 13 11 14
Frequently asked questions
Only if you want to. Some information, such as the sex you have or the body parts you have, can help your GP recommend the right tests and screening. You can share as much or as little as you're comfortable with.
Yes. Our GPs provide confidential STI testing and treatment. Pathology collection is available onsite through 4Cyte.
GPs in Australia can prescribe PrEP. Book an appointment to discuss whether PrEP is right for you, including the tests needed before you start.
Yes. You're welcome to bring a partner, friend or support person.
Yes. Consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card.