URMC Named a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality

The University of Rochester Medical Center is receiving national recognition for its commitment to equal care for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender patients and their families.  The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation named Strong Memorial Hospital a 2013 Leader in Healthcare Equality.  Strong is one of only a handful of Western New York medical providers to earn this designation.

“LGBT patients deeply appreciate the welcoming environment provided by Strong,” says HRC Health & Aging Director Shane Snowdon.  “It makes a big difference to know you are getting the same care your neighbors and co-workers receive.”

URMC meets or exceeds four key criteria set by the foundation.  The criteria include adoption of an explicit patient non-discrimination policy, equal visitation rights, and clearly specified equal opportunity employment practices.  In addition, URMC provided senior managers with training in LGBT patient-centered care.

“We know the best way to provide health care is to honor the values, beliefs, and backgrounds of our patients.  This designation reinforces our exceptional commitment to those ideals,” says Kathy Parrinello, R.N., Ph.D., chief operating officer and executive vice president of the hospital.

“The overarching goal is dignity in health care,” says John Cullen, Ph.D., research associate professor of Surgery and chair of the Pride Alliance at the University of Rochester.

HRC is the nation’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for LGBT Americans.  For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2013, and to download a free copy of the report, visit www.hrc.org.