Dana-Farber Cancer Institute a 'Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality'

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute 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.

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.

Dana-Farber earned top marks in meeting non-discrimination 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 respect they deserve.

"We are very pleased to be recognized as a leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality. We are proud of our commitment to provide high quality care for all patients and in maintaining a progressive work place that is welcoming to all," said Anna Trask, senior director, Human Resources at Dana-Farber.

Dana-Farber was one of 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 Dana-Farber for their tireless work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patients."

The Healthcare Equality Index offers healthcare 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 new regulatory requirements and access to high-quality staff training.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a principal teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School, is world-renowned for its leadership in adult and pediatric cancer treatment and research. Designated as a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), it is one of the largest recipients among independent hospitals of NCI and National Institutes of Health grant funding.

For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2014, or to download a free copy of the report, visit www.hrc.org/hei. For more information, go to www.dana-farber.org.