University Hospitals recognized for diversity by Modern Healthcare

University Hospitals was recognized for its evolving work toward eliminating inequities within its organization and community by being named to Modern Healthcare’s 2021 Class of Top Diversity Leaders.

This annual recognition honors the top health care executives and organizations influencing care delivery models and policies across the country, according to a news release.

The profiles of the Top Diversity Leaders are published online and in the September issue of Modern Healthcare magazine.

Cultural competency training, workforce development, succession planning, leadership development programs and recent internal diversity and equity focus groups are elements of the work recognized by Modern Healthcare, said the release.

These efforts have been guided by members of UH’s Social Justice & Equity Committee and the Office of Community Impact, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

“How we treat each other and our patients, defines the character of University Hospitals as a health system and leader in care for our community,” said University Hospitals CEO Cliff Megerian, MD. “Our accomplishments are commendable, and yet not nearly enough. The Modern Healthcare award is welcome validation that we are moving in the right direction.”

Through the work of the Social Justice & Equity Committee and CEDI, UH has played, and will continue to play, a role in unifying the community and its caregivers, the release said.

“How we treat each other and our patients, defines the character of University Hospitals as a health system and leader in care for our community.”

— University Hospitals CEO Cliff Megerian

Other programs include Step Up, UH Health Scholars, Bridge to your Future, Food for Life Markets and community vaccination clinics, said the release.

With UH CEDI’s Second Look Program, Cook Ross Bias Training and faculty recruitment initiatives are ongoing, the release said.

“Health care organizations widely promote their diversity, equity and inclusion efforts when they’re first announced,” said Modern Healthcare editor Aurora Aguilar. “But it’s more important to track success and make sure those initiatives deliver on the longterm results the companies and communities they serve expect.

“This year, we increased the cadence of our diversity recognition program and expanded eligibility to include companies as a whole, as well as individuals. The 2021 class of Top Diversity Leaders lead the pack in health care.

“These are people and companies that exemplify ‘walking the walk.’ Congratulations to all of our honorees and thank you for the hard work you do on the important issue of inclusivity.”