Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality - Morristown, Overlook, Newton Medical Centers

Author: Atlantic Health System
Published: 20th Oct 2014 - Updated: 17th Dec 2014
Peer-Reviewed Publication: N/A
Additional References: Sexual Health Information Publications

Summary: Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation Recognizes Morristown Medical Center, Overlook Medical Center and Newton Medical Center, as Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality.

Main Document

Morristown Medical Center, Overlook Medical Center and Newton Medical Center, all part of Atlantic Health System, have been recognized as "Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality," by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, the educational arm of the country's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization.

The findings were part of HRC Foundation's Healthcare Equality Index 2014, a unique annual survey that encourages equal care for LGBT Americans, and recognizes healthcare institutions doing the best work.

Morristown, Overlook and Newton medical centers earned top marks in meeting non-discrimination and training criteria that demonstrate their commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients, and their families, who can face significant challenges in securing the quality health care and respect they deserve.

"Throughout Atlantic Health System, we recognize that an important part of providing the highest quality health care is to ensure that the experience is inclusive at all levels," said Deborah Visconi, director of operations, and co-chair, Diversity Council for Atlantic Health System. "This recognition reflects Atlantic Health System's role as a leader in promoting equality within our communities."

This is the second year Morristown Medical Center has achieved the designation.

This recognition was cited by publisher Becker's Healthcare when it named Atlantic Health System as one of its "150 Great Places to Work in Healthcare" earlier this year.

The three Atlantic Health System hospitals were among a select group of 426 healthcare facilities nationwide to be named Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality. Facilities awarded this title meet key criteria, including patient and employee non-discrimination policies that specifically mention sexual orientation and gender identity, a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and LGBT health education for key staff members.

"Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality change the lives of LGBT patients and their families for the better each and every day," said Chad Griffin, HRC president. "LGBT people should be treated equally in all aspects of our lives, and HRC celebrates Atlantic Health System for its tireless work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patients."

Members of the Diversity Council at each of the Atlantic Health System hospitals sought their site's inclusion on the Healthcare Equality Index, an example of the council's mission to champion a diverse workforce and foster an inclusive culture that delivers the highest quality care to a diverse patient population. The Diversity Council seeks to create a multicultural environment that aligns with the needs of the community.