WILMINGTON, Del., June 19, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Christiana Care Health System has been recognized as a "Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality" in the Healthcare Equality Index 2012 report, an annual survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the educational arm of the country's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) organization. Christiana Care earned top marks for its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families, who can face challenges in accessing adequate health care.

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Christiana Care is one of a select group of 234 health care facilities nationwide named a Leader in Healthcare Equality. Hospitals awarded the honor 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. Christiana Care is the only hospital in Delaware to be included on the 2012 Healthcare Equality Index.

"Christiana Care's leadership role in the Healthcare Equality Index underscores the importance we place on diversity and inclusion, not only in our hiring practices but in the cultural sensitivity we show in the care we provide to our patients," said Rosa M. Colon-Kolacko, Ph.D., MBA, chief diversity officer and senior vice president and executive director of Christiana Care Learning Institute.

The 2012 Survey Index featured the following testimonial from Christiana Care prominently displayed on page two of the publication: "The Healthcare Equality Index provided a roadmap to evaluate where we are with best practices for LGBT patient- and family-centered care and with workforce LGBT diversity and inclusion," wrote Janice Nevin, M.D., chief medical officer and Dr. Colon.

HRC Family Project Director Ellen Kahn congratulated Christiana Care. "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 health care 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.

For more information about Christiana Care, visit www.christianacare.org/whoweare.

SOURCE Christiana Care Health System