In a significant achievement, Penn Medicine has once again been honored as a 2024 LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, with six hospitals within the University of Pennsylvania Health System securing perfect scores. The annual Healthcare Equality Index serves as a vital benchmarking tool, assessing LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and best practices in healthcare facilities nationwide. This recognition underscores Penn Medicine's unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care for LGBTQ+ patients.
The 16th edition of the Healthcare Equality Index evaluated 1,065 participating institutions, focusing on four key criteria areas: LGBTQ+ patient-centered care, patient services and support, employee benefits and policies, and patient and community engagement. Hospitals within the UPHS, including the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, demonstrated exemplary performance by achieving a perfect score of 100 points, reflecting their dedication to LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
Dr. Kevin Kline, an assistant professor of Family Medicine and Community Health at the Perelman School of Medicine, expressed pride in the continued recognition, highlighting Penn Medicine's steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality care to LGBTQ+ patients across the healthcare system. This achievement reinforces the organization's mission to prioritize inclusivity and excellence in healthcare delivery.
The Healthcare Equality Index, overseen by the Health & Aging Program at the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, plays a pivotal role in advancing LGBTQ+ health and aging initiatives at various levels of governance. The program conducts research, advocates for LGBTQ+ well-being, and supports institutions in enhancing LGBTQ+ inclusivity through education, policy development, research endeavors, and technical assistance.
Penn Medicine's designation as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader reaffirms its position as a trailblazer in providing comprehensive and inclusive healthcare services to the LGBTQ+ community. By excelling in LGBTQ+ patient-centered care, employee benefits, and community engagement, Penn Medicine sets a standard for healthcare facilities nationwide, fostering a culture of respect, inclusivity, and excellence in LGBTQ+ healthcare delivery.
The recognition by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation serves as a testament to Penn Medicine's ongoing efforts to create a welcoming and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ patients, employees, and community members. Through continuous dedication to LGBTQ+ inclusivity and advocacy, Penn Medicine exemplifies leadership in promoting equitable and accessible healthcare for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
