Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System designated as LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer
The Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System has been recognized as an "LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer" by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation in their 2024 Healthcare Equality Index survey.
This designation reflects the health care system's commitment to providing inclusive and high-quality care to all Veterans, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
"We are proud to be recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer," said Scott R. Isaacks, Director and CEO of the Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System. "Our commitment to providing inclusive, high-quality care to all Veterans, regardless of their orientation, is unwavering. This designation reflects the dedication of our staff to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for every Veteran we serve."
The health care system has implemented several initiatives to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for Veterans. These include developing and disseminating an LGBTQ+ resource guide for Veterans and staff, providing all-gender restrooms, and offering LGBTQ+-themed items at health fairs. Staff members also receive training through the VA's Talent Management System to ensure they are equipped to provide culturally competent care to LGBTQ+ Veterans.
"The HEI LGBTQ+ 2024 designation matters to the Veterans at the Ralph H. Johnson VA HCS since it demonstrates a commitment towards the promotion of LGBTQ+ inclusion, respect and support," said Dr. Kathie Hermayer, Veteran Care Coordinator LGBTQ+ at the RHJ Health Care System. "The HEI designation sends a signal to the LGBTQ+ community that the Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System is dedicated to affirm and enhance the personal well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals."
The health care system has also developed a transgender gender-affirming prosthetics consult to meet the specific needs of transgender Veterans and has promoted the collection of names used by Veteran, pronouns, sexual orientation, and gender identity patient data in the electronic health record.
To engage with the LGBTQ+ Veteran community, the health care system holds VA Health Fairs at the Main Facility and Community Based Outpatient Clinics. The Veteran Care Coordinator LGBTQ+ also meets with facility and clinical leadership to address concerns and challenges and attends monthly national VA LGBTQ+ meetings to improve communication about achievements and ongoing needs.
Looking to the future, the Ralph H. Johnson VA HCS plans to continue improving and expanding its services for LGBTQ+ Veterans. The Veteran Care Coordinator LGBTQ+ is represented on the VA Health Equity Committee to provide valuable input and feedback regarding the LGBTQ+ population.
"To treat all veterans with equality and respect," said Isaacks, reflecting on how the designation aligns with the health care system's overall mission and values.