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Duke Hospitals Recognized as Leaders in LGBT Healthcare

Three Duke facilities noted for strong commitment to LGBT patient-centered care

The renowned faculty and staff members of Duke University Health System aren’t just known for their top-notch medicine, but how they care for people, too.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation has recognized Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital and Duke Raleigh Hospital on its list of 2014 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Healthcare Equality Leaders. The inclusion of Duke’s healthcare facilities is part of the Human Rights Campaign’s Healthcare Equality Index, the national LGBT benchmarking tool that evaluates policies and practices related to the equity and inclusion of LGBT patients, visitors and employees.  

“To have all three Duke Hospitals recognized as 2014 Healthcare Equality Leaders is not only a distinct honor, but is a reflection of the commitment of leaders across our entire health system,” said Ben Reese, vice president and chief diversity officer with Duke’s Office for Institutional Equity. “But, at the same time, inclusive workplaces and outstanding and sensitive healthcare should be the norm across our nation.”

This is the first time all three of Duke’s hospitals have been included on the list. Duke Regional has been named to the Index three years in a row, and this is Duke University Hospital’s sixth-straight year it has been recognized. Duke Raleigh makes its first appearance in 2014.

“Duke Regional takes great pride in offering the very best care to all our patients and their loved ones,” says Katie Galbraith, president of Duke Regional. “We are committed to treating the health needs of the community we serve with compassion and respect. There are no exceptions to that.”

Duke’s hospitals were among 426 healthcare facilities nationwide to be named Leaders in LGBT healthcare equality. Facilities awarded this title meet criteria such as:

  • 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
  • LGBT health education for key staff members

“These facilities have demonstrated their strong commitment to LGBT patient-centered care,” said Chad Griffin, Human Rights Campaign Foundation president. “They’ve sent a forceful message that healthcare facilities are playing an essential role in our nation’s movement toward full equality and inclusion for LGBT Americans.”

For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2014, or to download a free copy of the report, visit the Healthcare Equality Index website.