Pittsburgh Review

Allegheny Health Network (AHN), part of Highmark Health, has been named among the top health systems for Black America by BlackDoctor.org. This recognition highlights healthcare institutions committed to improving health equity for Black patients.

Margaret Larkins-Pettigrew, MD, chief clinical diversity, equity and inclusion officer at AHN/Highmark Health, expressed pride in the award. "It’s an honor to be recognized as a top healthcare destination for Black patients, and this award is a testament to the network’s ongoing commitment to addressing racial disparities, social determinants of health, and barriers to care that predominantly impact the health and well-being of Black families across the region," she stated. She emphasized AHN's responsibility to create an inclusive environment that serves all patients with high levels of care.

AHN stands out as one of 76 hospitals in the U.S., one of four in Pennsylvania, and the only one in Western Pennsylvania to receive this distinction. The selection by advisory board members from BlackDoctor.org was based on several criteria including feedback from Black doctors nationwide, quality of care scores, leadership diversity, urban community initiatives, supplier diversity efforts, and commitment to equitable care.

In 2024 alone, AHN hosted over 140 health outreach events and conducted more than 5,100 individual screenings focused on underserved communities. The network launched a maternal/infant health program under First Steps and Beyond and introduced training on racial bias in obstetrics. It also established "AHN Young Scholars" for eighth-grade students interested in medical careers.

Additionally, AHN partnered with Pittsburgh EMS for training sessions aimed at local youth football coaches. These efforts are part of a broader strategy by AHN/Highmark Health's DEI team supporting diverse community programs.

Highmark Health received separate accolades as a "Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion" by the Disability Equality Index and as a "Certified Age Friendly Employer" from the Age Friendly Institute.

The formal recognition ceremony for BlackDoctor.org's 2025 winners will take place on January 23 at Tulane University in New Orleans. These winners are expected to play crucial roles in discussions about eliminating healthcare disparities affecting Black patients.