LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader
UMass Memorial Health has earned recognition as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader in the 2026 Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) — the highest level of national recognition for LGBTQ+ inclusion in healthcare.
All UMass Memorial licensed acute care hospital locations received this designation, with the exception of Milford Regional, which was not included in this year’s submission following its recent addition to the system. Work is underway to include Milford Regional in a future survey cycle.
This recognition reflects our deep organizational commitment to creating a welcoming, respectful and inclusive environment for our patients, caregivers and communities.
What is the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI)?
The Healthcare Equality Index is a national benchmarking tool released by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the educational arm of the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization.
The HEI evaluates healthcare organizations on policies and practices that support LGBTQ+ inclusion and equitable care, helping both health systems and patients understand where inclusive, respectful care is being delivered.
How the Healthcare Equality Index Evaluates Organizations
Inclusive Patient Care and Support
This area looks at how we provide respectful, affirming care. We are committed to ensuring every patient feels seen, respected and supported throughout their care experience.
- Respectful communication, including the use of names and pronouns
- Improved collection of sexual orientation and gender identity information
- Access to LGBTQ+–affirming services and coordinated care
Employee Benefits and Workplace Inclusion
This area focuses on how we create an inclusive workplace that helps caregivers feel supported, respected and able to deliver compassionate, inclusive care.
- Inclusive benefits and caregiver resources
- Policies that promote respect, equity and nondiscrimination
- Tools and guidance to support LGBTQ+ caregivers and their colleagues
Education, Training and Policies
This area examines how we build and sustain inclusive practices through education, clear policies and inclusive practices across our system.
- Systemwide nondiscrimination policies for both patients and caregivers
- Ongoing learning focused on LGBTQ+ inclusion and care
- Clear standards that support accountability and respect
Community Engagement and Outreach
This area highlights how we partner with and learn from the communities we serve.
- Participation in community events and Pride initiatives
- Partnerships with local organizations
- Ongoing efforts to listen, learn and improve access to care
What This Means for Patients, Caregivers and the Communities We Serve
For Patients
- You can expect care that respects your identity and lived experience
- You will be treated with dignity, respect and compassion
- You are protected by nondiscrimination policies that support equitable, inclusive care
- You have access to gender-affirming and culturally competent care
For Caregivers
- You are part of a workplace that values inclusion, respect and belonging
- You are supported by nondiscrimination policies and inclusive workplace standards
- You have access to policies, benefits, and resources that support you and your family
- You receive education and training to help you provide the best possible care to every patient
For Our Community
- We are committed to being a trusted, inclusive healthcare partner
- We actively engage with and learn from the communities we serve
- We continue working to improve access to equitable care for all
Our Commitment
While this recognition marks an important milestone, we continue building on this work every day. UMass Memorial remains committed to advancing inclusive, equitable care and continuing to strengthen how we serve our patients, support our caregivers and engage with our communities.