Queensland hospital settles dispute with psychiatrist Dr Jillian Spencer over gender care
Psychiatrist Dr. Jillian Spencer has reached a confidential settlement with Queensland Children's Hospital, ending her employment after a dispute over gender-affirming care. Dr. Spencer had been suspended for publicly advocating for a 'watchful waiting' approach rather than immediate medical intervention for children with gender dysphoria.
Why it matters
The case highlights the ongoing medical and ethical debate regarding the standard of care for minors experiencing gender dysphoria.
Dr Jillian Spencer supports the “watchful waiting” approach to caring for children with gender distress. ( Four Corners: Mat Marsic )
Dr Jillian Spencer's employment has ended with Queensland Children's Hospital after reaching a confidential settlement with Children's Health Queensland.
The child and adolescent psychiatrist was suspended in 2023 after publicly criticising the hospital's approach to treating children with gender dysphoria.
As part of the agreement, all disciplinary proceedings against Dr Spencer have been discontinued.
Link copied Share Share article A psychiatrist who was suspended from the Queensland Children's Hospital three years ago for criticising the facility's gender service is no longer employed by the hospital.
Dr Jillian Spencer was stood down in April 2023 after attacking the service over its treatment of children and adolescents with gender dysphoria that included puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones.
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