Jefferson Healthcare has for the third consecutive year 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.

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

Jefferson Healthcare again earned top marks in meeting nondiscrimination and training criteria that demonstrate its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families, who can face significant challenges in securing the quality health care and the respect they deserve.

“Our highest priority is to provide the best and safest care for our patients,” Mike Glenn, CEO, said in a press release. “We do that without any bias or restrictions. We have maintained that high standard of unbiased care for three years in a row. It is an honor to be recognized for our policies and procedures that enable staff to work without any barriers. I am proud of our staff’s continuing progress at making Jefferson Healthcare hospital and clinics, outstanding medical care facilities for everyone.”

Jefferson Healthcare is one of 496 health care facilities nationwide to be named Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality. Facilities awarded this title meet key criteria, including patient and employee nondiscrimination 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.

“Despite all the progress we’ve made, far too many LGBT people still lack inclusive and affirming health care,” said Chad Griffin, president of the Human Rights Campaign, in a statement. “Leaders in LGBT health care equality are helping to change that, and, in the process, making the lives of LGBT patients and their families better each and every day.

“LGBT people have a right to be treated equally in all aspects of our lives, and HRC celebrates Jefferson Healthcare for its work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patients.”

The Healthcare Equality Index offers health care facilities unique and powerful 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.

For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2016, or to download a free copy of the report, visit

hrc.org/hei.