For the second year in a row BCHS’ and its Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub is a finalist in the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards.
The Hub’s Trans and Gender Diverse Clinic has been short-listed in the Excellence in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion category for advancing regional-based, gender-affirming care.
Facing limited access to safe, inclusive and timely healthcare, the Clinic was established in 2025 to reduce the burden of long waitlists and travelling to the city for trans and gender diverse people across the Loddon Mallee region.
The small team of Dr Louise Manning, Dr Haris Noor and nurse Sybilla Marchingo (both pictured above) has cared for more than 200 patients in that time. It’s work that Dr Haris is dedicated to.
“I’m proud of the Clinic and the trust we’ve earned from the community over the past year,” he said. “Offering gender-affirming care in a place where a person feels safe to be themself while also being close to home is a right everyone who wants it should be afforded.
“That is exactly what we’re providing and the impact has been profound for our clients. It’s been life-changing.
“So many across the region have reached out for education, support and care. And our clients are also providing incredible feedback that is both heartening and helpful for us to evolve to meet their needs.”
That evolution included changing from a GP-led service to a nurse-supported model, said the Hub’s Senior Leader Kathlyn Crisp, which has directly resulted in improved appointment flow, reduced delays and strengthened continuity of care.
“Our amazing nurse Sybilla leads initial consultations now, including intake, history taking, education and care coordination,” she said. “Our GPs then provide clinical oversight, prescribing, reviews and they also manage complex presentations.
“Our patients needs are at the heart of everything we do and their continued feedback ensures the Clinic will improve health outcomes for all trans and gender diverse people.”
BCHS CEO Mandy Hutchinson said she was thrilled at the Hub’s state-wide recognition.
“The compassion, understanding and non-judgemental care the team provides is like second-nature to them. They’re wonderful,” she said.
“BCHS is proud to be bold allies, and are deeply committed to ensuring equitable and accessible health care for our LGBTQIA+ community.”
Award winners will be announced at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards Gala Night on Wednesday, October 14.