ST. LOUIS — Barnes-Jewish Hospital 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 healthcare institutions doing the best work. Barnes-Jewish Hospital earned top marks in meeting non-discrimination and training criteria that demonstrate its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients, and their families.
“Barnes-Jewish is dedicated to providing equal access to care for all of our patients, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.” says Katrina Farmer, vice president of diversity, inclusion and equity for Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children’s hospitals. "We're committed to an inclusive environment of care and we have incorporated this philosophy into our cultural competency training curriculum."
Barnes-Jewish Hospital 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 Barnes-Jewish Hospital for their tireless work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patients.”
For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2014, or to download a free copy of the report, visit www.hrc.org/hei.
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About Barnes-Jewish Hospital
Barnes-Jewish Hospital is a 1,315 bed teaching hospital affiliated with Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Mo. The hospital has a 1,763 member medical staff, with many recognized as "Best Doctors in America." Barnes-Jewish is a member of BJC HealthCare, which provides a full range of health care services through its 12 hospitals and more than 100 health care sites in Missouri and Illinois.
Contact:
Kara Price Shannon
(314) 286-0715
[email protected]