Thirteen Intermountain Healthcare hospitals in Utah earned the 2022 LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader designation from the Human Rights Campaign.

Utah Valley Hospital, Orem Community Hospital and Layton Hospital were among the recipients, receiving the highest score of 100.

Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital was named one of the top-performing equity providers by the HRC.

“This designation recognizes the efforts of many hardworking people throughout Intermountain who fiercely advocate for all of our patients, including LGBTQ+ patients, members, community, and caregivers,” said Nathan Alexander, co-chair of Intermountain’s LGBTQ+ Caregiver Resource Group. “The recognition is an honor and represents a true responsibility to keep improving access to equitable and affirming care for everyone in the communities we serve.”

HRC used a scoring system called the Healthcare Equality Index to review each hospital. The system looks at four central pillars — foundational policies and training in LGBTQ+ patient-centered care, patient services and support, employee benefits/policies and community-centered care.

The 13 Intermountain Hospitals are among only 18 facilities in the state and fewer than 500 in the nation to earn the designation. In a press release, Intermountain Healthcare said recognizing a person’s sexual orientation and gender identity is an important part of their overall health picture.

“Intermountain knows those in the LGBTQ+ community face some health issues at a higher rate but may be less likely to seek care for a variety of reasons.”

Tara Hanneman, director of health and aging at the Human Rights Campaign said every person deserves to have access to quality healthcare, feel safe in the facility where they are receiving care and be respected and heard by their doctor.

“The Healthcare Equality Index, at its core, strives to ensure LGBTQ+ people are protected and affirmed by their healthcare providers and feel safe seeking services,” she said.

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