The 13th edition of the Health Equality Index (HEI) assesses participants on four criteria: nondiscrimination and staff training; patient services and support; employee benefits and policies; and patient and community engagement.

Story by: Lynne Choate on August 31, 2020

Norton Healthcare’s five hospitals and Norton Cancer Institute have been named LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Leaders by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation for the third year in a row.

“Norton Healthcare was founded on a mission of service to all,” said Russell F. Cox, president and CEO, Norton Healthcare. “From our LGBTQ employee resource group to our nondiscriminatory policies for both patients and employees, and our support of community events such as the Louisville Pride Festival, we are committed to serving as an ally of the LGBTQ community.”

The 13th edition of the Health Equality Index (HEI) assesses participants on four criteria: nondiscrimination and staff training; patient services and support; employee benefits and policies; and patient and community engagement. Facilities that receive the maximum score in each section earn the status as a 2020 LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Leader.

Nine health care facilities in Kentucky were recognized. Six of them were Norton Healthcare facilities.

“In health care, we support patients and families when they are at their most vulnerable,” said Joseph M. Flynn, D.O., MPH, FACP, chief administrative officer, Norton Medical Group, and physician-in-chief, Norton Cancer Institute. “It’s important our interactions and the care we provide ensure our patients — as well as our visitors and fellow employees — feel comfortable in all of our facilities.”

A record 765 health care facilities actively participated in the 2020 HEI survey. In addition, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation proactively researched key policies at more than 1,000 additional nonparticipating hospitals.

Norton Healthcare was one of 495 facilities nationwide to earn a top score of 100 and receive the LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Leader designation. Another 193 facilities earned the “Top Performer” designation for scoring from 80 to 95 points. With 90% of participants scoring 80 points or more, health care facilities are going beyond the basics when it comes to adopting policies and practices in LGBTQ care.