Methodist Hospital Metropolitan, part of Methodist Healthcare System, has been recognized as a “Leader in LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation four years in a row. The HRC Foundation is an educational arm of the country’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization.
The hospital participated in the HRC’s annual survey, the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) 2020, which encourages equal care for LGBTQ+ Americans by evaluating inclusive policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ patients, visitors, and employees.
For the past four years, Methodist Hospital Metropolitan has proven its commitment to providing high-quality care to the LQBTQ+ community and their families by earning top scores in meeting non-discrimination and training. This community faces many challenges in receiving quality healthcare and feeling respected and accepted in healthcare settings. The hospital ensures their staff are trained, educated, and care for members of this community with empathy. Additionally, the hospital is one of only two facilities in San Antonio to hold this title, and there are a total of six in the state of Texas.
“Being recognized as a leader in healthcare equality for the LGBTQ+ community means so much to our hospital. Our staff strives to provide the very best care for every patient; diversity and inclusion are an essential part of our hospital’s culture,” said Greg Seiler, CEO at Methodist Hospital Metropolitan. “Our mission statement is ’serving humanity to honor God by providing exceptional and cost-effective health care accessible to all.’ Receiving this honor proves our understanding, commitment, and compassion, for the needs of the LGBTQ+ community and their families.”
Of only 495 health care facilities nationwide to be named a Leader in LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality, Methodist Hospital Metropolitan is one of them. To receive this title, facilities must prove that they meet key criteria such as patient and employee non-discrimination policies. They must specifically mention sexual orientation and gender identity, guarantee equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and LGBTQ+ health education for key staff members.
Despite all the progress made so far, the LGBTQ+ community still lacks inclusive and affirming health care. Methodist Hospital Metropolitan and other Leaders in LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality are working to change that while supporting them in other ways. Methodist Hospital Metropolitan also supports the LGBTQ+ community by partnering with the San Antonio Pride Center. The hospital is an active supporter and sponsor for various events the center puts on each year, and leases them a space in their medical professional building for a very low cost.
Find more information about the Healthcare Equality Index or download a free copy of the report.