The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender advocacy group for  equal rights under the law and in the workplace. Each year,  the HRC polls companies and hospitals regarding their policies and practices. The result is the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI).

“They usually do it to boost patient safety and satisfaction, to meet CMS or Medicare guidelines and Joint Commission guidelines,” says Patrick Coleman, M.D.“ They also do  it to help best practices in the future.”

There are four criteria for the Health Equality Index:

• The Patient Bill of Rights: To include the terms sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression

• Visitation Rights: To allow same-sex partners the  same access as opposite-sex or next of kin, as well as for same-sex parents to have equal access to their minor child

• Education on LGBT Patient-Centered Care

• Employee Non-discrimination Policy: To include sexual  orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

Dr. Coleman says Piedmont scored favorably on each of the HEI’s four criteria. “Piedmont’s practices have always been in line with these recommendations, but we’ve adopted them as policy now,” he says.

“I think it’s very difficult for a patient in the GLBT community to come in and speak to a stranger about their sexual practices, their relationship status, their gender-identity feelings. With this rating, they can feel safe to come and get the care they need and expect understanding and compassion from  their providers.”

Dr. Coleman practices at Piedmont Physicians Atlantic Station, located at 232 19th Street Northwest, Suite 7220, Atlanta, GA 30363. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Coleman or one of our other primary care providers. Save time, book online.