CHICAGO — Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) has received a top score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index for the sixth consecutive year. With this achievement, HCSC has been recognized as one of the “Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion.”
The Disability Equality Index is a joint initiative from the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and Disability:IN. It focuses on five key areas: culture and leadership; enterprise-wide access; employment practices; community engagement; and supplier diversity.
“This award demonstrates how we continue to drive inclusion, foster collaboration across differences, and cultivate a sense of belonging where everyone feels valued and is treated with respect,” said Raquel Daniels, VP and Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for HCSC. “We strive to foster a representative environment that is equitable and inclusive to better serve the diverse needs of our members and communities.”
HCSC supports an environment where all employees feel empowered and recognized for their unique talents, perspectives, and differences. The Center for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion embeds a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout all areas of the company. HCSC strives to maintain an inclusive work environment where all employees, including those from the disability community, LGBTQ community and from any background, culture, and gender, experience equity.
The strong network of Business Resource Groups (BRGs) is a meaningful way for employees to remain engaged in the company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategy. The In-Abled BRG supports the disability community by championing ongoing activities and events throughout the year. In-Abled’s programming offerings highlight key topics of interest to employees with disabilities and their allies. Recent topics include accommodations, disability disclosure, managing staff with disabilities, supporting peers with non-apparent disabilities, and mental health education.
HCSC is one of 240 companies that received a score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index.
"There is no single best way to practice disability inclusion, however, the companies taking the DEI share the desire to create a workplace that fosters the concept of bringing your whole self to the office," said Maria Town, President and CEO of AAPD. "We look forward to working with all of the participants to help identify meaningful ways to build upon their current practices as we continue on the disability inclusion journey together."