UH one of ‘World’s Most Ethical Companies’ for 8th time

Recognition honors companies’ ‘purpose-based strategy, positive change’

University Hospitals has once again been recognized by the Ethisphere Institute, a company defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices, based in Scottsdale, Arizona, as one of the 2020 “World’s Most Ethical Companies.”

According to a news release, this is the eighth year UH has received the recognition since 2012 and is one of only five honorees in the health care providers’ category.

In 2020, 132 honorees were recognized spanning 21 countries and 51 industries. The award underscores “an ongoing institutional commitment to lead with integrity and prioritize ethical business practices.” Thomas F. Zenty III, CEO of UH, said the award is a tribute to the integrity the health system’s caregivers.

“We strive to maintain high professional and ethical standards as we deliver the highest-quality care to our patients by living according to our core values: excellence; diversity; integrity; compassion; and teamwork.”

University Hospitals highlighted several programs to Ethisphere to demonstrate its commitment to integrity and social responsibility, the release stated.

Promoting a culture based on values and ethics, that culture is supported by a robust compliance and ethics program committed to continuous improvement.

In the recent past, UH has enhanced its enterprise risk management program, improved management of relationships of interest and increased compliance counseling services, officials report.

In addition, UH continues to foster a “SpeakUp Culture” by reinforcing the message that every caregiver in every role is empowered to make a difference.

“UH’s intent to make a difference directly impacts the communities we serve,” said Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer Valda Clark Christian. “The UH Rainbow Center for Women & Children recently partnered with an adjacent grocery to launch handson cooking and nutrition classes. The classes offer targeted programming for new mothers, diabetics, those managing hypertension or high cholesterol and many more.

“The UH Otis Moss Jr. Health Center Food for Life Market and Healthy Harvest programs provide free, fresh, healthy food and dietitian consults to individuals suffering from food insecurity or dietary needs,” she added. “UH also sponsors community-focused programming addressing infant mortality, job training, health screenings, as well as screening and support services for those at risk of opioid use disorders.”

Christian echoed Zenty’s sentiments, adding recognition from Ethisphere is the product of a systemwide commitment to upholding ethical standards and practicing its core values on a daily basis.

“In times of change and challenge, those commitments and practices guide us in our quest to be the most trusted health care provider for our community,” she said.

Being an eight-time honoree underscores UH’s commitment to leading ethical business standards and practices, ensuring long-term value to key stakeholders including patients, caregivers and suppliers, the release stated.

Ethisphere CEO Timothy Erblich extended congratulations to everyone at UH for earning the recognition.

“This is a moment to acknowledge the leaders working to advance corporate cultures defined by integrity and affirm those companies contributing to broader societal imperatives and the greater good,” he said.