VA Long Beach Healthcare System has been recognized as a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation. The findings were part of HRC Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index 2016, an annual survey that encourages equal care for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americans by evaluating inclusive policies and practices related to LGBT patients, visitors and employees.
VA Long Beach earned top marks in meeting non-discrimination and training criteria that “demonstrate its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT veterans and their families, who can face significant challenges in securing the quality health care and respect they deserve,” according to a press release the VA issued this week.
“It is critical to us at this facility, to insure all veterans that served this nation and guarantee our freedom are equally free to access care in a compassionate, safe and welcoming environment, free of discrimination,” the press release states. “We are proud of the work we have accomplished and the care we provide.”
VA Long Beach Healthcare System is one of 496 healthcare facilities nationwide to be named leaders in LGBT healthcare equality. Facilities awarded the 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, according to the VA.
“Despite all the progress we’ve made, far too many LGBT people still lack inclusive and affirming healthcare,” said Chad Griffin, president of the Human Rights Campaign. “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. LGBT people have a right to be treated equally in all aspects of our lives, and HRC celebrates VA Long Beach 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,” according to the VA. The Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Health Equity coordinates facility participation in the Healthcare Equity Index. This office is responsible for championing equitable health for all Veterans including Veterans from LGBT communities.
For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2016 or to download a free copy of the report, visit hrc.org/hei .
For more information about the VA Office of Health Equity, visit va.gov/healthequity .
