UI Health honored as leader in LGBT equality

UI Health was named a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the educational arm of the country’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization.

The designation is given to facilities that meet key criteria, including patient and employee nondiscrimination policies on sexual orientation and gender identity, a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and LGBT health education for staff members.

“This is a significant achievement for UI Health, and we are proud to be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation for our systemwide policies that ensure equality for all our patients, employees and their family members, and help provide a ‘person centered’ experience,” said Airica Steed, UI Health’s chief experience officer.

“We have an incredibly diverse workforce here, and our hiring practices, benefits and policies reflect our commitment to inclusiveness,” said Mary Jo Smith, assistant vice president of human resources at UI Health.

UI Health was among 426 health care facilities to receive the designation out of about 1,500 evaluated by the foundation.