For Immediate Release: June 19, 2012

Grady Health System named as "Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality" by National Survey

Grady is highlighted in the 2012 Healthcare Equality Index

Contact: Denise Simpson
Phone: (404) 616-6855
E-mail: dsimpson@gmh.edu

Grady Health System has been recognized as a "Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality" in the Healthcare Equality Index 2012 report. The HEI is an annual survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, the educational arm of the country's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) organization. Grady earned top marks for its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families, who can face challenges in accessing adequate healthcare.

"We are honored to be named a leader in healthcare equality," said John Haupert, Grady's President and CEO. "From the beginning of the AIDS epidemic, Grady has been a leader in providing services for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender patients, as well as advocate for their right to be treated with compassion, dignity and respect. Our dedication to serving Atlanta's LGBT community and our philosophy of fair and equal treatment long ago extended beyond the walls of our AIDS center to encompass all of the health system's services including primary care, inpatient, emergency and level1 trauma care."

Grady is among a select group of 234 healthcare facilities nationwide to be named Leaders in Healthcare Equality. Facilities awarded this title meet several key indicators for equitable care, including nondiscrimination policies for LGBT patients and employees, a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and LGBT health education for key staff.

Grady was congratulated by HRC Family Project Director Ellen Kahn. "LGBT patients deeply appreciate the welcoming environment provided by a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality. It makes a big difference to know that your local healthcare facility is fully committed to giving you the same care it gives your neighbors and co-workers."

For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index 2012, or to download a free copy of the report, visit www.hrc.org/hei.

About Grady Health System
Grady Health System is one of the largest public health systems in the United States. Grady consists of the 953-bed Grady Memorial Hospital, six neighborhood health centers, Crestview Health & Rehabilitation Center, and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Hughes Spalding, which is operated as a Children's affiliate.

With its nationally acclaimed Emergency Department and Burn Center, Grady has the premier level I trauma center in the region and serves as the 911 ambulance provider for the city of Atlanta. The state's only Poison Center is housed at Grady as well.

The Marcus Stroke and Neuroscience Center, Grady Diabetes Center, Georgia Cancer Center for Excellence, Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, and the Avon Breast Health Center are also notable components of the health system. Additionally, Grady's Ponce de Leon Center was named one of the top three HIV/AIDS outpatient clinics in the country.

Other key services include Grady's Regional Perinatal Center and its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the Primary Care Center, dedicated 60 Plus services for older adults, Teen Services, and the Rape Crisis Center. Nationally ranked in one specialty, Grady was named one of Atlanta's Best Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

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