CHOP recognized as 2014 LGBT Healthcare Equality Leader

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has been recognized as a 2014 LGBT Healthcare Equality Leader by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, the educational arm of the country's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization.

The Healthcare Equality Leaders were selected based on an annual survey, the Healthcare Equality Index, which identifies healthcare institutions that are leading the way in providing equal care for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender patients.

CHOP earned top marks in meeting non-discrimination and training criteria that demonstrate its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families.

"This is a tremendous honor that reflects CHOP's dedication to provide culturally competent and affirming healthcare to our LGBT patients and families," said Madeline Bell, president and chief operating officer of The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "We have implemented policies to safeguard the rights of our LGBT patients, families and employees, and also developed programs and resources to better address issues that are unique to children and families in our LGBT communities."

In January CHOP opened The Gender & Sexuality Development Clinic to serve the needs of gender-variant, gender-nonconforming and transgender children and youth up to 21 years of age and their families. A multidisciplinary team including pediatric specialists in gender, adolescent medicine, endocrinology, and mental health offers assessment, medical and psychosocial support for patients and their families. CHOP is one of a handful of pediatric hospitals with a formal program that serves this often underserved patient population.

CHOP was one of a select group of 427 healthcare facilities nationwide to be named Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality, and the only children's hospital to be recognized in the state of Pennsylvania. Facilities awarded this title meet key criteria, including patient and employee non-discrimination policies that specifically mention sexual orientation and gender identity, a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and LGBT health education for key staff members.

"Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality change the lives of LGBT patients and their families for the better each and every day," said Chad Griffin, HRC president. "LGBT people should be treated equally in all aspects of our lives, and HRC celebrates The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for their tireless work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patients."

The Healthcare Equality Index offers healthcare facilities unique and powerful resources designed to help provide equal care to a long-overlooked group of patients, as well as assistance in complying with new regulatory requirements and access to high-quality staff training.