The next step in healthcare evolution

Deb Visconi is president and CEO of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, Paramus, N.J.

All people need to feel safe, valued and able to freely express concerns without stigma or shame. Yet, time and time again, we see that some of our neighbors do not seek care because they feel they will be judged and that their needs will not be understood.

In a 2017 survey, the liberal Center for American Progress found that 8% of LGBTQ+ respondents were turned away from a provider because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation. Another 9% said that a provider had used harsh or abusive language when treating them.

For transgender persons, the statistics are even more startling—29% reported experiencing...