CANANDAIGUA – UR Medicine’s Thompson Health has once again 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.
Thompson, which was first named a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality in 2014, 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.
“Earning this distinction once again is important to Thompson because it lets us know we’re doing all we can to ensure equal care for a long-overlooked part of our community. We want everyone to feel welcome and respected at Thompson, and we are grateful to the Human Rights Campaign Foundation for the resources it
provides in helping us accomplish this,” said Thompson Health President/CEO Michael F. Stapleton Jr., FACHE.
Thompson is one of 496 healthcare facilities nationwide and one of four in the Rochester region to be named a Leader 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 Thompson for its work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patients.”
The Healthcare Equality Index offers healthcare facilities resources designed to help provide equal care, as well as assistance in complying with regulatory requirements and access to 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.