Cornell Health named LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader
By Stephen D'Angelo, Student and Campus Life
Cornell Health earned a perfect score on the Healthcare Equality Index survey to receive "LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader" designation by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation's largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization. In its 16th edition, the 2024 Healthcare Equality Index is a national benchmarking tool that evaluates healthcare facilities, both inside and outside of higher education, on their LGBTQ+ equity and inclusion policies and practices. This year’s index assessed nearly 2,400 healthcare facilities nationwide, with only 384 facilities receiving the "LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader" designation.
“This important work aligns with Cornell Health’s broader diversity and inclusion initiatives aimed at addressing healthcare inequities and eliminating barriers to care,” said Dr. Jada Hamilton, interim chief of clinical operations and services at Cornell Health. “Ensuring all students have the opportunity to achieve their highest level of health and well-being is essential, and our staff at Cornell Health is dedicated to this mission—both personally and professionally.”
Cornell Health offers services and support for LGBTQ+ students, including affirming medical care, sexual health care, mental health care, and identity-related support. Gender-affirming care at Cornell Health includes hormone therapy, referrals for gender-affirming surgeries, free binding and tucking supplies, and assistance with legal documentation for name and gender marker changes. Patients can receive referrals to specialized providers and access ongoing care resources.