MUSC named a leader in LGBT health care equality

MUSC Health has been recognized as a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the educational arm of the country’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization.  

The findings were part of HRC Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index 2016, an annual survey that encourages equal care for LGBT Americans by evaluating inclusive policies and practices related to LGBT patients, visitors and employees. 

MUSC 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. In addition, MUSC is making progress on inclusivity and awareness of the LGBT community via a “Safe Zone” organization on campus. 

“We are honored to receive this recognition of our efforts to build a diverse and inclusive organization that understands the unique needs of the many communities we serve,” said Anton Gunn, MUSC Health chief diversity officer and executive director of Community Health Innovation.  “This is an important first step in our journey to advance equity and inclusion throughout our health system. We are committed to creating a culturally competent clinical environment, training and educating inclusive clinicians and improving health services for the LGBT community.”

MUSC Health is one of a select group of 496 health care 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 health care.  Leaders in LGBT health care 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 MUSC for its work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patients.”

The Healthcare Equality Index offers health care facilities 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.