LGBTQ+ Safe Zone

Safe Zone Designation

Wood River Health has been designated an LGBTQ+ Safe Zone by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI). This designation affirms our ongoing commitment to providing high‑quality, patient‑centered care that is welcoming, respectful, and responsive to individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or otherwise gender‑diverse.

This recognition identifies Wood River Health as a trusted provider where LGBTQ+ patients can feel safe, respected, and supported when accessing health care services.

An Inclusive and Affirming Care Environment

As an LGBTQ+ Safe Zone, Wood River Health demonstrates an inclusive and affirming care environment at every level. This includes patient intake, clinical interactions, organizational policies, and physical spaces.

We strive to create a health care experience in which all patients are treated with dignity, their identities are acknowledged and respected, and barriers to care are actively reduced. This commitment reflects our belief that equitable access to care is essential for positive health outcomes and for building long‑term trust within the communities we serve.

BCBSRI Safe Zone Standards

Certification as a BCBSRI LGBTQ+ Safe Zone requires health care organizations to meet specific standards that promote equity and inclusion.

These standards include:

• Ongoing staff training focused on the health needs and lived experiences of LGBTQ+ patients
• Clear protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression for both patients and staff
• Access to gender‑neutral restrooms
• The use of inclusive language, forms, and procedures throughout the organization
• A public commitment to outreach, visibility, and ongoing engagement with the LGBTQ+ community

Our Ongoing Commitment

Through this designation, Wood River Health reaffirms our mission to provide compassionate, inclusive care for all. We are proud to be recognized as a BCBSRI LGBTQ+ Safe Zone and remain committed to continuously strengthening our practices so that every patient feels seen, heard, and valued. visit the BCBSRI LGBTQ Safe Zone website.