Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles has achieved the highest score on the “Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion” list by the 2025 Disability Index. This marks the second consecutive year the institution has received this recognition, underscoring its commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace for employees of all abilities.
Commitment to Disability Inclusion
The Disability Index is a collaborative effort between the American Association of People with Disabilities and Disability:IN, which assesses organizations based on their disability inclusion policies and practices. According to Nicole Mitchell, Chief Diversity, Inclusion, and Wellbeing Officer at Cedars-Sinai, “Disability inclusion is a vital part of our strategy to drive innovation and create a workplace where everyone can thrive.”
Mitchell further emphasized that this recognition mirrors the center’s ongoing efforts to ensure individuals with both apparent and non-apparent disabilities feel supported, valued, and empowered to contribute their best. The Disability Index evaluates companies on six key categories: culture and leadership, enterprise-wide access, employment practices, community engagement, supplier inclusion, and responsible procurement.
Employee Initiatives and Community Engagement
Cedars-Sinai actively enhances its disability inclusion policies through initiatives led by employees. One such initiative is the Supporting Purposeful Accessibility, Community, and Equity (SPACE) employee resource group. This group serves as a supportive community for employees with disabilities and their allies, fostering advocacy and awareness.
In celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the SPACE group organized an interactive workshop focused on establishing healthy boundaries to promote wellbeing, productivity, and respect in the workplace. Cedars-Sinai is also highlighting the contributions of employees with disabilities through various in-person and virtual events aimed at promoting inclusive practices.
As Cedars-Sinai continues to champion disability inclusion, it sets a noteworthy example for other organizations to follow. The medical center’s recognition by the 2025 Disability Index illustrates the positive impact of fostering an inclusive work environment, which not only benefits employees but also enhances overall organizational success.