Hospital, clinics named as leader in LGBT health care equality

Susan Swindells, M.B.B.S.

The Nebraska Medical Center and UNMC Physicians recently received recognition as a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” from the Human Rights Campaign, America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americans.

The announcement was made after all four criteria for LGBT patient-centered care, as defined by the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) were met. The process included an online survey administered by the Human Rights Campaign to ensure that participating health care organizations are meeting legal, CMS and Joint Commission requirements for LGBT patient-centered care.

Jean Amoura, M.D.

“This is the first time that any health care institution in Nebraska has been accredited,” said Jean Amoura, M.D., obstetrics/gynecology.

Drs. Amoura and Susan Swindells, medical director of the HIV clinic, led the initiative to become “Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality.” A record number of 121 Veterans Health Administration (VA) medical centers across the country, including the Omaha VA, also participated.

The HEI survey reviews non-discrimination policies for LGBT patients and employees and provides participating health care organizations with a needs assessment that includes access to free expert training.

A diverse group of employees in key work areas received training on best practices for meeting the needs of LGBT patients and employees. As part of the process of receiving leadership status, leadership representatives from The Nebraska Medical Center and UNMC Physicians also were asked to participate in a training webinar.

“We are deeply appreciative of the support we received from The Nebraska Medical Center and UNMC Physicians leadership and delighted to receive this recognition as an inclusive and LGBT-friendly health care enterprise,” Dr. Swindells said.