Yale New Haven Health System hospitals nationally recognized for healthcare equality

7/11/2013 — The national Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation has recognized Yale New Haven Health member hospitals for their commitment to equitable, inclusive care for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) patients and their families, who can face significant challenges in securing adequate health care.

Bridgeport, Greenwich and Yale New Haven hospitals are among 464 healthcare facilities nationwide named "Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality" in the Healthcare Equality Index 2013, an annual survey conducted by the HRC Foundation, the educational arm of the country's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender organization.

Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality meet key criteria for equitable care, including non-discrimination policies for LGBT patients and employees, a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and LGBT health education for key staff members.

"We're honored to receive this recognition, which reflects our commitment to providing compassionate, patient-and family-centered care to every member of the diverse population we serve," said Peter Herbert, MD, senior vice president, medical affairs, Yale New Haven Health System.

"LGBT patients deeply appreciate the welcoming environment provided by a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality," said HRC Health & Aging Director Shane Snowdon. "It makes a big difference to know that your local healthcare facility is fully committed to giving you the same care it gives your neighbors and co-workers."

For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2013, or to download a free copy of the report, visit http://www.hrc.org/hei.

Yale New Haven Hospital (YNHH), part of Yale New Haven Health, is a nationally recognized, 1,541-bed, not-for-profit hospital serving as the primary teaching hospital for the Yale School of Medicine (YSM). Founded as the fourth voluntary hospital in the U.S. in 1826, today, YNHH has two New Haven-based campuses, and also includes Yale New Haven Children's Hospital, Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital and Smilow Cancer Hospital. YNHH has received Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the nation’s highest honor of nursing excellence. YNHH has a combined medical staff of about 4,500 university and community physicians practicing in more than 100 specialties. www.ynhh.org