Company: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center
Innovation: Pioneering Approaches to Culturally Competent Health Care
Date Introduced: 2010
Award Recognition: Top Ten (#4)

The Human Rights Campaign Healthcare Equality Index recognized Cincinnati Children’s as a “Best Healthcare Facility for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Patients and Families” in 2012, the nation’s only freestanding pediatric hospital with this recognition. Additionally, the Office of Diversity & Inclusion has worked closely with the Adolescent Medicine division as they develop a clinic to serve the complex needs of transgender adolescents.

ERGs are also taking a proactive stance. With the goal of improving childhood health and reducing disparities, the African American Professional Advisory Council is increasing the community’s awareness of health conditions that disproportionately impact minority children (i.e., Sickle Cell, obesity, and asthma). The Veteran and Military Family Advocacy Network is partnering with the Family Resource Center and Child Life/Integrative Care Department to connect and provide resources to veteran and military families.

Globally recognized research is a large part of Cincinnati Children’s mission. Diverse communities are critical partners in research studies. To increase participation of diverse individuals in clinical studies, the Office of Diversity & Inclusion partners with the Research division to strengthen community relationships.

In 2012, patients from more than ninety countries and every state were cared for in the medical center. This expansion brings an increasing number of culturally diverse and limited English proficient patients and families. The Office of Diversity & Inclusion is launching universal signage and training for effective use of medical interpreters. It is also educating Patient Services units on improving culturally competent healthcare skills. This allows clinicians and staff members to effectively communicate and treat all patients and families. The education introduces tools to incorporate cultural healing techniques and comfort families in times of distress.