Dedicated breast screening sessions for LGBTI+ and trans and gender diverse (TGD) people are returning to Ballarat and happening in Bendigo for the first time.
Rainbow Sessions began in 2018 to create a space where the LGBTI+ and TGD people could find extra support, ask questions, and screen in a safe and inclusive space with other community members.
This month, Bendigo Breast Screen will host two Rainbow sessions on 20 and 27 April. Grampians BreastScreen in Ballarat will host Rainbow Sessions again on 9 May and 24 June.
Social entrepreneur, LGBTI+ advocate, and BreastScreen client Dr Catherine Barrett remembered her screen at the Rose Clinic where we first held Rainbow Sessions.
"When I had my mammogram at the Rainbow Rose, I felt like I’d had a mammogram for me and the whole community,” Catherine said. “Nobody goes ‘hooray' about getting a mammogram, but it’s important. I love my life and want to live a long and happy one. The Rainbow Sessions make the whole process feel safe and a bit more fun.”
Breast screening with us is free, takes 10 minutes, and is with a woman radiographer. You don’t need a GP referral or Medicare card to make an appointment with BreastScreen Victoria.
To check your eligibility and register, visit Rainbow Sessions or call 13 20 50 and request Rainbow Bendigo or Rainbow Grampians. You can also book an appointment at any clinic that is convenient for you. All BreastScreen Victoria clinics aim to provide an accessible and inclusive service.