Why Self-Advocacy Matters in Healthcare

For many trans people, accessing healthcare can feel stressful, exhausting, or unsafe — even before the appointment begins.

While many healthcare professionals provide affirming care, others may lack training, use incorrect language, or make assumptions about bodies and identities. Self-advocacy is not about confrontation. It’s about protecting your dignity, your wellbeing, and your right to appropriate care.

You deserve to be treated with respect in every healthcare setting.

Your Rights in Australian Healthcare Settings

In Australia, discrimination based on gender identity is unlawful under federal law and most state and territory laws.

In healthcare, this generally means you have the right to:

• Be treated respectfully and without harassment

• Use your correct name and pronouns

• Receive care without being judged or denied because you are trans

• Have your privacy protected

• Access services without unnecessary questioning about your gender or body

You do not need to educate your provider — though sometimes you may choose to share information if it feels safe to do so.

Preparing Before an Appointment

Advocacy often starts before you walk into a clinic.

Helpful preparation can include:

• Writing down your main concerns or questions

• Bringing a support person if that feels safer

• Noting your name and pronouns on intake forms if possible

• Bringing copies of relevant referrals or letters

• Planning how much personal information you want to share

It’s okay to keep explanations brief. You are allowed to focus on the reason you are there.

Using Clear and Boundaried Language

You don’t need perfect wording to advocate for yourself. Simple, calm statements are often enough.

Examples include:

• “I use she/her pronouns.”

• “That term doesn’t feel appropriate for me.”

• “I’m here for this issue — my gender isn’t relevant today.”

• “I’m not comfortable discussing that.”

Setting boundaries is not rude. It’s a form of self-care.

What to Do If a Provider Uses Incorrect Language

If a healthcare professional misgenders you or uses language that feels uncomfortable, you can choose how — or whether — to respond.

Options may include:

• Gently correcting them once

• Asking reception staff to update your file

• Redirecting the conversation back to your health concern

• Deciding not to correct them if safety feels uncertain

There is no “right” response. Your safety and energy matter.

When Care Feels Dismissive or Inappropriate

If a provider:

• Fixates on your gender when it’s irrelevant

• Dismisses your symptoms

• Refuses care without justification

• Makes you feel shamed or unsafe

You are allowed to:

• Ask for clarification

• Request a second opinion

• End the appointment

• Seek care elsewhere

You are not obligated to stay in a situation that harms you.

Bringing a Support Person or Advocate

Having someone with you — physically or on the phone — can help with:

• Emotional support

• Remembering information

• Reinforcing boundaries if you feel overwhelmed

Support people can be friends, partners, family members, or community advocates. You don’t need to justify their presence.

Documenting Your Experiences

If something feels wrong, it can help to:

• Write down what happened

• Note dates, names, and locations

• Keep copies of correspondence or referrals

Documentation can be useful if you later choose to:

• Provide feedback

• Change providers

• Make a complaint

• Seek advocacy support

You are allowed to take your experiences seriously.

Making a Complaint or Seeking Support

If you experience discrimination or poor treatment, you can consider:

• The clinic’s internal complaints process

• Your state or territory health complaints body

• An anti-discrimination commission

• LGBTQIA+ advocacy or legal support services

You do not have to pursue formal action to justify your feelings. Sometimes seeking validation and support is enough.

Choosing Affirming Providers When Possible

When you have the option, you might look for providers who:

• Publicly state they are LGBTQIA+ inclusive

• Are recommended by community networks

• Ask respectful questions

• Focus on your health rather than your identity

Finding affirming care can take time. Needing to switch providers is not a failure.

Closing Note

Advocating for yourself in healthcare settings can be tiring — especially when you’re already unwell or vulnerable.

You are not “difficult” for asking to be respected.
You are not asking for special treatment.
You are asking for appropriate care.

Every step you take to protect your comfort and dignity is valid — and you deserve support along the way.