BIDMC Earns “LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Leader” Designation in Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index

BOSTON – Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) has been recognized as a leader in “LGBTQ Healthcare Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation for the 9th consecutive year. The designation was awarded in the 12th edition of the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI).

The Health Equality Index is an annual survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, the educational arm of America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for LGBTQ people. The survey scores health care facilities on policies and practices dedicated to the equitable treatment and inclusion of their LGBTQ patients, visitors and employees. To be named a “LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Leader,” HEI participants are scored in four criteria: foundational elements of LGBTQ patient-centered care, LGBTQ Patient Services and Support, Employee Benefits and Policies, and LGBTQ Patient and Community Engagement.

“It is an honor to be continuously recognized by the Human Rights Campaign for our dedication to providing a welcoming, respectful and inclusive environment for all,” said Peter Healy, President of BIDMC. “BIDMC has a strong legacy of supporting the LGBTQ community, including providing equitable care for all, implementing non-discrimination policies for LGBTQ patients and employees, having a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and offering LGBTQ health education for staff members.”

A record 680 health care facilities actively participated in the HEI 2019 survey, with HRC Foundation proactively researching key policies at 1,000 additional non-participating hospitals. Of those included in the HEI, 406 earned a “LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Leader” designation.

“The health care facilities that participate in Human Rights Campaign’s Healthcare Equality Index are making clear that they stand on the side of fairness and are committed to providing inclusive care to their LGBTQ patients,” said Human Rights Campaign President Alphonso David. “Going beyond inclusive non-discrimination policies, these health care facilities are adopting best practices in the areas of LGBTQ patient care and support, employee policies and benefits, and LGBTQ patient and community engagement. We commend all of the HEI participants for their commitment to providing inclusive care for all.”