Texas Children’s was recently 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.
Every year, the HRC conducts a unique survey called the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI), which benchmarks and encourages equal care for LGBT individuals by evaluating inclusive policies and practices related to LGBT patients, visitors and employees in healthcare organizations throughout the nation.
For the HEI 2016 report, more than 2,000 health care facilities nationwide were included in the survey – a record 568 health care organizations voluntarily participated while the rest were proactively researched by HEI. Texas Children’s is one of only three hospitals – and the only pediatric facility – in Houston to achieve the “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” award.
In order to receive this leadership distinction, Texas Children’s fulfilled the HEI’s Core Four Leader Criteria, which focused on policies and practices considered foundational for equitable and inclusive LGBT care such as patient and employee non-discrimination, equal visitation and training of key staff members.
“We are very proud of this designation. Our philosophy of family-centered care is contingent on providing a safe and respectful environment for our patients and their families as well as our caregivers to foster open communication and teamwork.” said David Wykes, director of Employee Relations. “As a leader in pediatric health care, we must lead by example, and this designation further exemplifies Texas Children’s dedication to our mission of providing quality health care to our patients and families regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation and ability to pay.”
Click here to learn more about the HEI.