International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia – 17 May 2015

The annual Dorothies, awarded by Tasmania’s gender and sexuality support and education
service Working It Out (WIO), today recognized Tasmanian medical practitioners that are
leading the way with inclusivity for LGBTI Tasmanians.

The aim of The Dorothies is to recognise mainstream contributions to inclusive practice, to
increase awareness of the need to be inclusive of LGBTI Tasmanians and to increase
access to services for LGBTI Tasmanians.

WIO CEO Susan Ditter said the 2015 Dorothies Commendation Award to a Medical Service
was presented to Sexual Health Service Tasmania, for its longstanding commitment to
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people.

“Sexual Health Service Tasmania is a statewide service staffed by doctors, nurses,
counselors and educators, to provide people with the opportunity to enhance their sexual
health and wellbeing,” Ms Ditter said.

“A Significant Support Award was also presented as part of the Dorothies, which went to
Geoffrey Bradshaw in recognition of his provision of psychiatric care.

“Since 2012, each year the Dorothies have celebrated inclusivity in a range of Tasmanian
services, including inclusive workplaces, inclusive schools and now inclusive medical
practices across the state.

“At WIO we are constantly asked to recommend doctors and specialists for lesbian, gay,
bisexual and intersex people and their families, with an increasing number of parents now
also asking for this information for their children.

Presenting the Dorothies, Australian Medical Association (Tasmania) President A/Prof Tim
Greenaway said the AMA was serious about its responsibility for setting the standards of
ethical behavior expected of doctors and for improving and maintaining the health of
patients.

“The AMA believes in equity of access to health care for all Australians,” A/Prof Greenaway
said.

“Our Position Statement on Sexual Diversity and Gender Identity states that discrimination
against LGBTI populations contributes to poorer health outcomes and a doctor’s nonjudgmental
acknowledgement of a patient’s sexual orientation, gender identity and behavior
enhances clinical care.

“The AMA is pleased to acknowledge inclusive medical practices in Tasmania through the
presentation of the Dorothies, and looks forward to a day when such awards are not
necessary, as discrimination on any basis is anathema to Australians.”
WIO CEO Susan Ditter