Christiana Care Health System recognized as Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality

Christiana Care Health System recognized as Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality

Christiana Care has been recognized as a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality in the Healthcare Equality Index 2013, an annual survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, the educational arm of the country’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) organization. Christiana Care earned top marks for its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families, who can face significant challenges in securing adequate health care.

“We are honored to be recognized by the Healthcare Equality Index 2013,” said Timothy Rodden, director of Pastoral Services at Christiana Care. “Employees at every level of our health system are eager to create a culture of inclusion so that we can continue to learn from and grow with one another.”

Christiana Care was one of a select group of 464 health care facilities nationwide to be named Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality. Facilities awarded this title 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. Three Christiana Care health care facilities — Christiana Hospital, Wilmington Hospital and the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center — were individually recognized in the Healthcare Equality Index 2013. Christiana Care has also incorporated LGBT concerns into its own initiatives on cultural competency, which is the ability to work effectively across cultures, as well as diversity and inclusion in order to provide respectful and expert care to its neighbors.

“Christiana Care’s leadership role in the Healthcare Equality Index for three years in a row demonstrates our commitment to diversity and cultural competency to promote an inclusive environment for our patients and colleagues,” said Rosa M. Colon-Kolacko, Ph.D., MBA, chief diversity officer and senior vice president and executive director of Christiana Care Learning Institute. “This award is reflective of our promise to our neighbors to be respectful, expert, caring partners in their health.”

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

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