Holy Cross Health has revealed its designation as an “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer” by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC). This recognition was awarded in the 16th iteration of HRC’s Healthcare Equality Index (HEI), which was recently released. Of the 1,065 healthcare facilities actively participating in the survey and scoring process, 462 received the designation.
“Health inequities are systematic differences in the health status of different population groups,” Kim Saiswick says, Ed.D., R.N., LMHC, Vice President of Community Health and Well-Being at Holy Cross Health. “Social determinants of health such as poverty, unequal access to health care, lack of education, stigma and racism are underlying, contributing factors of health inequities. Turning the tide of these inequities is possible and imperative; Holy Cross Health has recognized this, making health equity an explicit and implicit priority. Holy Cross Health is an agent of local change and is changing the narrative, taking action that will promote health equity. These issues are an important priority for healthcare professionals year-round, not just during Pride Month.”
Holy Cross Health remains a leader and change agent in the healthcare arena. Newsweek ranked it in the top 25% as one of America’s Best-In-State Hospitals 2024, which recognized 600 leading hospitals nationwide. Holy Cross’ commitment to serve all as a Catholic not-for-profit community hospital stands as a beacon to many marginalized communities and those lacking access to healthcare. Holy Cross extends a warm welcome to the LGBTQ+ community and is dedicated to meeting their healthcare needs.
This year’s HEI is particularly significant as LGBTQ+ adults are twice as likely as non-LGBTQ+ adults to have experienced unfair treatment or disrespect from a doctor or healthcare provider in the last three years, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. The intersection of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and a legacy of discrimination in healthcare settings could further discourage LGBTQ+ individuals from seeking medical care, underscoring the importance of the HEI for those seeking LGBTQ+-inclusive care.
“As anti-LGBTQ+ extremists look to strip away healthcare access at every turn, LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones are looking for healthcare providers to offer and champion fully inclusive services. The Healthcare Equality Index is helping people find facilities where welcoming policies and practices are the standard,” Kelley Robinson says, president of the Human Rights Campaign. “We know that LGBTQ+ people – especially our trans family – continue to face discrimination in the doctor’s office. No one should have to put their health on the back burner for fear of mistreatment in a healthcare facility or by their doctor.”
Photo credit: Holy Cross Health
