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Human Rights Campaign Foundation recognizes John Muir Health for its commitment to LGBT patients, employees
WALNUT CREEK, Calif., Nov. 3, 2014 – John Muir Health, a nationally recognized not-for-profit health care organization east of San Francisco, has been recognized as a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, the educational arm of the country’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization.
The findings were part of HRC Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index 2014, a unique annual survey that encourages equal care for LGBT Americans, and recognizes health care institutions doing the best work.
John Muir Health earned top marks in meeting non-discrimination and training criteria that demonstrate its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families, who can face significant challenges in securing the quality health care and respect they deserve.
“John Muir Health provides an inclusive environment for our culturally diverse patients, physicians, staff and volunteers. Our commitment is to treat all of our patients with respect and deliver the expertise and high-quality care for which we are known,” said John Muir Health President and CEO Cal Knight.
In 2013, several members of John Muir Heath, including physicians Dr. Thomas Greely and Dr. Marcy Haas, formed an LGBT task force to further improve inclusivity to best serve all patients. Education initiatives of this task force include enhanced training for physicians and other personnel on best practices when caring for LGBT patients, and relating to their families.
“One of our promises to patients at John Muir Health is to ‘be heard,’ which is reflected in this recognition from the HRC,” said Dr. Greely. “We are proud of the work we have done to provide equitable and inclusive care for all patients and their families. We look forward to continuing to engage our physicians and staff to increase awareness and understanding, and provide a care experience that reflects our diverse community.”
John Muir Health was one of a select group of 426 healthcare facilities nationwide to be named Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality. Facilities awarded this title meet key criteria, including patient and employee non-discrimination policies that specifically mention sexual orientation and gender identity, a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and LGBT health education for key staff members.
“Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality change the lives of LGBT patients and their families for the better each and every day,” said Chad Griffin, HRC president. “LGBT people should be treated equally in all aspects of our lives, and HRC celebrates John Muir Health for their tireless work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patients.”
The Healthcare Equality Index offers health care facilities unique and powerful resources designed to help provide equal care to a long-overlooked group of patients, as well as assistance in complying with new regulatory requirements and access to high-quality staff training.
For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2014, or to download a free copy of the report, visit www.hrc.org/hei.