Cooper University Health Care has been named an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader, the highest designation awarded in the 2026 Healthcare Equality Index (HEI), a national benchmarking survey administered by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation that evaluates policies and practices related to inclusion for LGBTQ+ patients, visitors, and workforce members.
The designation recognizes Cooper’s longstanding commitment to providing compassionate, inclusive care for all patients, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
“At Cooper, we believe every patient deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion,” said Justin Schweitzer, DO, medical director for LGBTQ+ Health at Cooper. “This recognition reflects the commitment of our physicians, nurses, and team members to creating an environment where LGBTQ+ patients feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to receive the care they need.”
Cooper earned the Healthcare Equality Leader designation by demonstrating excellence in areas including patient-centered care, employee policies and benefits, education and training, patient services, and community engagement.
The recognition also highlights the work of Cooper’s Center for LGBTQ+ Health, which provides comprehensive health care services designed to address the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals across the lifespan. Through specialized clinical services, care coordination, education, and community partnerships, the Center works to eliminate barriers to care and improve health outcomes for LGBTQ+ patients throughout South Jersey and the Delaware Valley.
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index is considered the nation’s leading assessment of LGBTQ+ inclusion in health care. Nearly 750 health care facilities participated in the 2026 survey, with fewer than half earning the Healthcare Equality Leader designation.
“Health care access for the LGBTQ+ community in 2026 is a tale of both important progress and dangerous setbacks,” said Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign. “Even amid extraordinary pressure, many healthcare institutions are continuing to show up for LGBTQ+ patients and staff.”
The HEI helps health care organizations evaluate and strengthen policies and practices that support safe, respectful, and inclusive care for LGBTQ+ patients and their families.