John Muir Medical Centers, Concord and Walnut and John Muir Behavioral Health Center Named as “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” by National Survey

WALNUT CREEK, CA – March 29, 2016 – 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 2016, a unique annual survey that encourages equal care for LGBT Americans by evaluating inclusive policies and practices related to LGBT patients, visitors and employees.

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’s mission is to improve the health of the communities we serve with quality and compassion,” said Cal Knight, president and CEO, John Muir Health. “Fulfilling our mission means providing an inclusive environment for our culturally diverse patients, physicians, nurses, staff and volunteers. We appreciate the HRC Foundation’s acknowledgment of our work, while recognizing that we must continue to promote a vibrant, welcoming and compassionate culture.”

Established in 2013, John Muir Health’s multi-disciplinary Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Task Force has revised policies and procedures and led education campaigns to promote an inclusive environment for all patients served.

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. Thomas Greely, vice president for Clinical Affairs at John Muir Health, and task force member. “We’re proud of the work we’ve done to provide equitable and inclusive care for all patients and their families. We look forward to continuing to engage our physicians, nurses and staff to increase awareness and understanding and provide a care experience that reflects our diverse community.”

John Muir Health is one of a select group of 496 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.

“Despite all the progress we’ve made, far too many LGBT people still lack inclusive and affirming healthcare. Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality are helping to change that, and, in the process, making the lives of LGBT patients and their families better each and every day,” said Chad Griffin, President of the Human Rights Campaign. “LGBT people have a right to be treated equally in all aspects of our lives, and HRC celebrates John Muir Health for its work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patients.”

The Healthcare Equality Index offers healthcare 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 regulatory requirements and access to high-quality staff training.

For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2016, or to download a free copy of the report, visit www.hrc.org/hei.