HRC recognizes SCCA, UW Medicine hospitals as Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality

The HRC annually invites health care facilities nationwide to participate in a survey rating themselves on providing equitable and inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families. The survey questions focus on the policies and practices considered essential for equitable and inclusive LGBT care, such as questioning whether the facility's visitation policy explicitly grants same-sex couples the same access as different-sex couples. Facilities recognized as HEI 2013 "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.

SCCA, Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center, Northwest Hospital & Medical Center, and Valley Medical Center were part of a select group of 464 healthcare facilities nationwide to be named "Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality." SCCA and UW Medicine's four hospitals were congratulated by HRC Health & Aging Director Shane Snowdon during the HRC's national press conference held July 11 at the headquarters of the Veterans Administration in Washington, D.C. "LGBT patients deeply appreciate the welcoming environment provided by a "Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality.'" 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."