Meet Dr Damien Mergard: A Pioneer in LGBTQI+ Healthcare
As Pride Month shines a spotlight on visibility, acceptance, and equality, it’s also a timely reminder that healthcare for the LGBTQI+ community still lags behind. Dr Damien Mergard is working to change that.
A General Practitioner since 1996, Dr Mergard has dedicated his career to delivering care that affirms, respects, and understands. Now serving as Principal Doctor at the Queensland Council for LGBTI+ Health (QC), he’s become a key advocate for inclusive healthcare that meets the specific needs of LGBTQI+ individuals.
From tackling year-long waitlists for gender-affirming therapy to improving access to HIV care, his mission is clear: to close the gap and ensure that everyone - regardless of identity - can access safe, informed, and compassionate healthcare.
Building a Bridge Between Medicine and Community
Joining QC wasn’t just a career move - it was a response to a glaring need. “There’s a real gap in care for the LGBTQI+ community,” says Dr Mergard. “I wanted to be part of changing that.”
As the first full-time GP at the organisation, Dr Mergard has taken a proactive role in addressing long-standing barriers, including excessive wait times for gender-affirming hormone therapy. He sees patients five days a week, offering both continuity and consistency—something many in the community have gone without.
In his view, bridging the healthcare gap starts with presence. “People need to know there’s someone here who understands their needs, and who’s committed to advocating for them.”
A Dual Focus: HIV Care and Gender-Affirming Medicine
Dr Mergard’s work reflects a deep understanding of the unique healthcare needs within the LGBTQI+ community. With a special interest in sexual health and HIV treatment, he offers a holistic model of care—one that integrates prevention, support, and treatment under one roof.
Currently completing a Master of Medicine in HIV and Reproductive Health, Dr Mergard continues to build on his expertise. “The science is always evolving. To offer the best care, we have to evolve with it.”
Why Representation in Healthcare Matters
For many LGBTQI+ patients, the healthcare system can feel like unfamiliar - and at times as an unwelcoming territory. Dr Mergard believes this needs to change, and that change starts with education. “General practitioners often haven’t had training in LGBTQI+ health. That needs to shift if we want to deliver truly inclusive care.”
He’s hopeful that more doctors will step into this space, but also realistic about the work ahead. “We need systemic change - more providers, shorter waitlists, and more visibility for inclusive models of care.”
Looking Ahead
During a month that celebrates LGBTQI+ pride, identity, and resilience, Dr Mergard’s message lands with urgency: healthcare must catch up.
“There’s still a long way to go,” he says. “But if we keep listening, keep learning, and keep showing up - we’ll get there.”
His story is a reminder that Pride isn’t just about celebration—it’s also about action. And for Dr Mergard, that action starts in the clinic room, one patient at a time.
Hear his story in his own words - watch the full video now.
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