For the third year in a row, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center has received high honors from the national Human Rights Campaign (HRC), in recognition of the efforts being made by the institution and its health care workers to ensure all LGBTQ patients and their families receive inclusive care.

Wake Forest Baptist is among 193 hospitals designated as top performers in the HRC’s Healthcare Equality Index. This year a record 793 health care facilities took part in the annual survey that assesses each facility based on their equity and inclusion practices and policies for LGBTQ patients and their families. The HEI is a benchmarking tool that can help both patients and their families decide which facility best meets their needs.

“I am proud of each and every one of our employees for the care and compassion they show to our patients and their families every day,” said Julie Ann Freischlag, M.D., CEO of Wake Forest Baptist Health and dean of Wake Forest School of Medicine. “This designation takes on special meaning during the pandemic, when everyone – from patient and family to health care employee ­– is facing this daily challenge. We want to be the safe, inclusive and healing health care choice for all. We are very pleased to receive this very important designation.”

Both Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and Novant Health are recognized by the HRC on this year’s list.