Marin General Hospital Named a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality
Highlighted in Healthcare Equality Index 2013 National Survey
GREENBRAE, CA — In an annual national survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC)Foundation, Marin General Hospital has been recognized as a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality.” The Healthcare Equality Index 2013 survey was conducted by the educational arm of the country’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) organization and measured hospitals’ commitments to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families.
“Marin General Hospital is committed to making sure that everyone in our community has access to quality healthcare,” says Jon Friedenberg, Chief Fund and Business Development Officer. “We recognize that LGBT patients and their families can face significant challenges. In fact, surveys show that more than half of them have experienced some kind of discrimination in healthcare, and as result, many believe they will be treated differently—or even refused medical services because they are LGBT. Part of our community hospital mission is to insure that we do everything possible to make Marin General Hospital a welcoming environment for every patient.”
The HRC found 464 healthcare facilities nationwide that met its stringent standards to be named Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality. In the North Bay, Marin General was one of only two facilities that received the designation. The criteria included providing equitable care, having non-discrimination policies for LGBT patients and employees, having a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and providing LGBT health education for key staff members.
"It's a tribute to Marin General Hospital that they made the commitment to become a Healthcare Equality Leader," says Paula Pilecki, Executive Director, Spectrum LGBT Center in San Rafael, who worked with the hospital to provide diversity training to staff members. "While they're known in the community for their LGBT-friendly policies, they contacted Spectrum because they wanted to learn how to meet the stringent criteria to be on the Leader list. I'm personally delighted that their efforts have resulted in Marin General Hospital making its first appearance in HRC’s Healthcare Equality Index for 2013, and I’m proud of the role Spectrum played in the early stages."
For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2013, or to download a free copy of the report, visit www.hrc.org/hei.
About the Human Rights Campaign
The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.
