PROVIDENCE – Health care providers that wish to be considered for designation as a Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island LGBTQ Safe Zone have until mid-February to submit applications.
The certification recognizes providers that have demonstrated they are providing safe, affirming and inclusive care to Rhode Island’s LGBTQ community.
To qualify as an LGBTQ Safe Zone, providers must meet certification requirements that reflect the highest standards of care for LGBTQ people. These include training staff in caring for LGBTQ patients, showing commitment to protecting staff and patients from discrimination, providing gender-neutral bathrooms, utilizing inclusive forms and intake procedures, and displaying a commitment to working with the LGBTQ community.
“We understand that feeling respected and safe while seeking care is a critical part of achieving one’s own health and well-being, particularly the LGBTQ community, which has historically experienced mistreatment and discrimination in health care settings,” said Scott Gowrie, program lead for Safe Zone. “The Safe Zone Program helps direct all Rhode Islanders to safe, affirming and inclusive settings when seeking care.”
To date, Blue Cross has certified more than 70 Safe Zone facilities in more than 20 cities and towns across Rhode Island since the program was launched in 2015.
This year’s application deadline is 5 p.m. on Feb. 15, 2023. Applications are available online at bcbsri.com/providers/safezone-program.
Providers who are approved for certification will be notified in March. Selected facilities will receive a window cling and plaque so visitors will recognize it as a place that offers safe and affirming care to the LGBTQ community.
Claudia Chiappa is a PBN staff writer. You may contact her at Chiappa@PBN.com.
