The Human Rights Campaign Foundation released its Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) 2014 report, showing Florida as No. 3 in the number of recognized HEI 2014 “Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality.”
26 Florida healthcare systems were recognized as “Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality,” tying with Ohio and coming behind California and New York. The following healthcare systems in Central Florida and the Tampa Bay area were recognized:
The Bay Pines VA Healthcare System (VAHCS)
Poinciana Medical Center in Kissimmee
VA Orlando Medical Center
Doctors Hospital of Sarasota
Edward White Hospital in St. Petersburg
Palms of Pasadena Hospital in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg General Hospital
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa
VA James A. Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa
The grading for the HRC Foundation’s HEI 2014 survey is based on healthcare systems meeting a Core Four Leader Criteria covering patient nondiscrimination, LBGT-inclusive visitation and employment nondiscrimination. Eligible healthcare systems have received HEI approved training for dealing with their LGBT patients.
“At the C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center and our clinics located across southwest Florida, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, high-quality health care environment for all Veterans,” said Suzanne M. Klinker, Director, Bay Pines VAHCS. “Our participation in the 2014 national HEI survey demonstrates our commitment to health care equity for all the men and women we serve. We are honored to be recognized as a national leader for the second year in a row.”
The report says the HEI was created to provide healthcare facilities with the information and resources needed for LGBTs to have patient-centered care, and to ensure these facilities comply with new regulations.
