Media release

From: University of Otago

Author comment from Mx Cassie Withey-Rila, University of Otago

"We have seen an increased interest in improving healthcare provision for transgender, non-binary, and other gender expansive communities in recent years. While there are some specific healthcare needs our communities have, much of our healthcare needs are the same as any other healthcare consumer. As primary care is the centre of our public healthcare system, ensuring doctors have the confidence and competence to work with trans patients is essential.

"There is little research exploring positive healthcare interactions for trans adults, and this is the first study looking at what that means in an Aotearoa New Zealand context. These findings could inform better practices for healthcare providers across the country. This publication provides a starting place for developing those better practices, as well as expanding our understanding of the strengths and limitations of the current state of healthcare provision for trans adults. These findings will benefit both advocates for policy change, as well as medical education opportunities, as we work together to try and improve health equity in Aotearoa New Zealand."