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Carle Health Celebrated in first-ever ‘Best Regional Hospital for Equitable Access’ List

Carle Health Celebrated in first-ever ‘Best Regional Hospital for Equitable Access’ List
Carle Health’s commitment to offering access to high-quality health innovations for all the communities we serve is now recognized by U.S. News & World Reports. The Carle Foundation Hospital is one of just two hospitals in the state of Illinois named on the inaugural ‘Best Regional Hospital for Equitable Access’ list by the consumer insights rating publication. The list identifies the top organizations making a considerable impact in achieving exceptional health outcomes among underserved communities.

As Central Illinois' trusted healthcare provider, Carle Health is committed to inclusion, equality and healing for all who depend on our care. The recognition demonstrates the health system’s ongoing dedication to bringing consistent Diversity, Equity and Inclusion staff educational programming, community-based care and outreach initiatives, and patient-centered care practices to build an intentional strategy to support all populations. This comes on the heels of the healthcare system being recognized by The Healthcare Equality Index (HEI), as a leader in the inclusion of safe and supportive healthcare for LGBTQ+ community members.

“At Carle Health we work hard to demonstrate our values to all patients in the communities we serve,” Elizabeth Angelo, DNP, Carle Foundation Hospital president and chief nursing executive officer said. “We are committed to creating a care environment that is a place that anyone who trusts us with their care can find improved health outcomes and focus on supporting team members so they can maintain a customized care approach for patients.” 

Increasing access to underserved communities has always been a priority for the health system. After nearly 6 years in operation, the Carle Mobile Health Clinic continues to bring expert healthcare providers directly to the communities and families who need it most. The first-in-class, 40-foot, wheelchair-friendly unit offers full-service medical care to those who may find challenges connecting with more traditional healthcare processes. This option brings care to a trusted space and builds a connection with the health system to ensure more families stay healthy. Carle Health operates two mobile clinics, one serving Champaign and Vermilion Counties and one bringing services to McLean County.

Reaching patients of all backgrounds is core to the mission of Carle Health but meeting them where they are is not the only priority. The health system continues to evolve as we build the processes and care environment that supports an inclusive experience for every patient.

“Our team takes the responsibility of being a healthcare partner to patients and their loved ones very seriously, and we know that we can’t do that well without an informed and individualized approach to care,” Amy Delaney, PhD, Carle Health Diversity, Equity and Inclusion director said. “Our efforts to build a more diverse, equitable and inclusive environment lays the foundation for the delivery of high-quality care and advances health outcomes for patients.”

The U.S. News & World Report reviewed institutions that served patients from a community of greater socioeconomic deprivation (according to the Area Deprivation Index), a rate of racial/ethnic minority community representation, and their Medicaid patient rates.
 

Categories: Redefining Healthcare

Tags: Access, and, Care, Diversity, Equity, Health, Inclusion, Redefining, Rural