AnMed Diversity Efforts Garner National Award

Observer Reports

AnMed was recently chosen as one of only three health systems in the U.S. as a winner of the 2024 Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care Award from the American Hospital Association. The annual honor is given for outstanding efforts among hospitals and health systems to advance equity of care to all patients and to spread lessons learned and progress toward diversity, inclusion and health equity.

“This is a tremendous, tremendous tribute to the compassion and the exceptional care that we provide to everyone throughout our community,” said AnMed CEO William Kenley. “Social determinants of health affect a wide range of health outcomes and risks, but through commitment, hard work and intelligence, we can make a difference in raising the tide for everyone. I’m very proud of the will, the passion and the dogged efforts that so many at AnMed have contributed to this end.”

AnMed, was selected as the AHA’s award winner in the Small/Rural Hospital Excellence category.

AnMed’s work to improve equity of care has been headlined by the availability of language services and communications offerings for patients who have limited English proficiency. This effort, which includes both in-person and digital-interpretation options for multiple languages, has guaranteed precision and uniformity in delivering language services, ultimately leading to increased satisfaction among diverse patient groups.

AnMed's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion also includes addressing broad social drivers of health and promoting racial reconciliation in South Carolina. The health system provides diversity training for staff members and internal support groups for special populations, and AnMed actively fosters an environment that embraces inclusivity to mirror the local community it serves.

“Collaborations with nonprofit organizations and coalitions like the United Way, AIM, and the Anderson Area Remembrance and Reconciliation Initiative highlight AnMed’s comprehensive approach to community wellbeing,” said Juana Slade, AnMed’s chief diversity officer. “By embracing effective community partnerships, AnMed continues to establish a benchmark for inclusive health care delivery and social responsibility, ensuring that all residents of Upstate South Carolina have access to equitable care and opportunities for a healthier future.”