VA Medical Center Long BeachVA Long Beach Healthcare System was recognized as a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, healthcare facility officials announced Tuesday.

VA Long Beach scored high in meeting non-discrimination and training criteria that show its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT veterans and their families who “can face significant challenges in securing the quality health care and respect they deserve,” officials stated.

The findings were part of HRC Foundation’s Health Equality Index 2016, an annual survey that encourages equal care for LGBT Americans by evaluating inclusive policies and practices related to LGBT patients, visitors and employees, a release stated. The HRC Foundation is the educational arm of “the country’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization.”

“It is critical to us at this facility, to insure ALL Veterans that served this nation and guarantee our freedom, are equally free to access care in a compassionate, safe and welcoming environment, free of discrimination,” VA Long Beach officials stated. “ We are proud of the work we have accomplished and the care we provide.”

The foundation selected a group of 496 healthcare facilities nationwide to be named “Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality,” according to the release. Facilities awarded with the title meet key criteria such as patient and employee non-discrimination policies that specifically mention sexual orientation and gender identity, a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and LGBT health education for key staff members, the release added.

“Despite all the progress we’ve made, far too many LGBT people still lack inclusive and affirming healthcare,” stated HRC President Chad Griffin. “Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality are helping to change that, and, in the process, making the lives of LGBT patients and their families better each and every day. LGBT people have a right to be treated equally in all aspects of our lives, and HRC celebrates VA Long Beach for its work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patients.”

For more information on the Healthcare Equality Index 2016, click here. For more information about the VA Office of Health Equity, click here.

Stephanie Rivera is the community engagement editor. Reach her at [email protected] or on Twitter at @StephRivera88.