Bridgeport Hospital named "Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality"

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Bridgeport  Hospital has been recognized as a "Leader 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. Greenwich and Yale New Haven hospitals, also part of Yale New Haven Health System, earned the same honor. 

The findings were part of HRC Foundation's Healthcare Equity Index 2016, an annual survey that encourages equal care for LGBT Americans by evaluating inclusive policies and practices related to LGBT patients, visitors and employees. 

Bridgeport Hospital earned top marks in meeting non-discrimination and training criteria that demonstrates its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families, who can face significant challenges in securing quality health care.

"This recognition reflects our belief that every individual — regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation or income level — should have access to high quality health care and be treated with dignity and compassion. Our organization takes pride in being an equal opportunity employer and providing ongoing staff training to meet the needs of our LGBT patients and their families," said Melissa Turner, senior vice president, Human Resources, for Bridgeport and Greenwich hospitals. 

Bridgeport Hospital is one of a select group of 496 healthcare facilities nationwide to be named Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality. Organizations must 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 staff members. 

The Healthcare Equality Index offers healthcare facilities resources designed to help provide equal care to a long-overlooked group of patients, as well as assistance in complying with regulatory requirements and access to high-quality staff training.