Callen-Lorde Named Leader in Healthcare Equality Index

With roots spanning back nearly 50 years, Callen-Lorde has long been a leader in LGBTQ healthcare. To help ensure a similar level of cultural competence with non-LGBTQ specific healthcare providers, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation created the Healthcare Equality Index or HEI – an annual survey that rates hospitals and healthcare facilities on policies and best practices in LGBTQ patient centered care. The HEI measure four areas: Non-discrimination and staff training; Patient services and support; Employee benefits and policies; and Patient and community engagement.

For the eighth year in a row, Callen-Lorde was named an HEI leader, topping each category for our LGBTQ patient centered care, as well as offering comprehensive benefits to staff such as a cost-free health insurance program, and gender affirming health coverage. The designation was reported in the 10th edition of the HEI, reflecting on a decade of progress in LGBTQ healthcare with record 590 healthcare facilities actively participated in the HEI 2017 survey. In addition to active survey participants, key policies were researched at more than 900 non-participating hospitals. Of all those included in the HEI, Callen-Lorde earned a “Leader in LGBTQ Healthcare Equality” designation.

“As our country and world struggle to recognize the value and dignity of every human, Callen-Lorde is thrilled to earn a score of 100% on Healthcare Equality Index,” Peter Meacher, Chief Medical Officer, said.

“The 2017 Healthcare Equality Index demonstrates huge strides in LGBTQ healthcare. It also shows that healthcare organizations have much work to do,” said Anthony Fortenberry, Chief Nursing Officer at Callen-Lorde. “We are pleased to be a leader in this global effort. Healthcare institutions have a critical role to play in ensuring health equity. We encourage our peers throughout the New York City metropolitan area, the United States and the rest of the world to join us in providing quality healthcare for the LGBTQ community in all of its diversity.”