Englewood Health Receives "Equality Builder" Designation for LGBTQ+ Inclusion Efforts

June 3, 2024 — Englewood Health has received the Equality Builder designation from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation’s 2024 Healthcare Equality Index (HEI). This accolade recognizes Englewood Health’s commitment to establishing foundational policies that ensure LGBTQ+ inclusion across all areas of service.

The HEI is the nation’s foremost benchmarking tool for LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and best practices in healthcare facilities. In its 16th iteration, the HEI evaluated 1,065 healthcare facilities across the United States, with fewer than 50 facilities in New Jersey participating, including Englewood Health.

Englewood Health was assessed on several key criteria, including patient non-discrimination, employee non-discrimination, and staff training in LGBTQ+ culturally competent care. Englewood Health demonstrated that foundational policies in these areas are not only in place but are also publicly communicated.

“We are deeply honored to receive the Equality Builder designation and to be recognized for our efforts in fostering an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ patients, visitors, and staff,” said Warren Geller, president and CEO of Englewood Health. “This recognition reaffirms our commitment to compassionate, comprehensive healthcare that acknowledges and addresses the specific needs of the diverse communities we serve.”

“We are committed to not just meeting but exceeding the standards for LGBTQ+ inclusion. This recognition from the HRC Foundation is a testament to our ongoing efforts to provide a welcoming and safe environment for everyone who steps through our doors,” said Anita Ramsetty, MD, director of health equity at Englewood Health.

The HEI’s rigorous evaluation process also includes criteria on patient services and support, employee benefits and policies, and patient and community engagement. Englewood Health’s achievement signifies its early and impactful steps towards full LGBTQ+ inclusion.

This progress has been significantly shaped by the dedicated efforts of Englewood Health’s Diversity & Inclusion Education Council and Population Health team, both of which have been instrumental in integrating LGBTQ+ inclusive practices across employee training, clinical care, and community outreach initiatives.

For more information about the HEI and to view the full 2024 report, please visit reports.hrc.org/hei-2024