About
Interconnect Health Research is a project working to develop co-designed, integrated, person-centred models of care to improve the physical and mental health of people with innate variations of sex characteristics (intersex variations/differences of sex development).
Project Aims
- Transform models of care from narrow biomedical approaches centred on early surgical and endocrinological “management” of IVSCs, to practical multidisciplinary approaches that centre psychosocial support, to address stigma and misconceptions, support families, and help individuals to determine and express their own values and preferences regarding all forms of non-urgent medical treatment.
- Undertake research that addresses community priorities and expectations, and that is community-based, participatory, and human rights-affirming.
- Improve understanding of the health and well-being needs (including unmet needs) and experiences of adolescents and adults with IVSCs, including those that are hard to reach due to negative experiences of healthcare, and those with intersectional disadvantages.
- Build the capacity and capability of the research community to undertake research and translational work relevant to the health needs of people with innate variations of sex characteristics.
Who we are
The Interconnect Health Research project is being conducted by a national consortium of researchers, community groups and clinicians, led by researchers with lived experiences of innate variations of sex characteristics (IVSCs). With more than 40 researchers, staff, and advisory members with multidisciplinary expertise involved across Australia and internationally, Interconnect is working to help create a safer and better future for people with IVSCs.
Key resources
Interconnect’s research is being conducted within a complex environment of existing research, legislation, and divergent professional norms. Here are links to key resources informing our work
Interconnect Consortium Partners
