Honored for supporting people with disabilities

Leading U.S. disability organizations recognize Kaiser Permanente for supporting and empowering people with disabilities.

At Kaiser Permanente, our diverse hiring practices support our commitment to an inclusive environment where all people can reach their full potential and thrive.

Every day, employees like Jennifer Walker help us achieve our mission. Walker works for Kaiser Permanente in Maryland as a consultant and advisor. She also has a disability.

‘A very empowering place to work’

Walker says work can be scary for employees with disabilities. But her experience at Kaiser Permanente has been positive.

“Kaiser Permanente is a very empowering place to work when you have a disability,” Walker said. “My manager has encouraged me to request accommodations as needed and has made me feel like Kaiser Permanente cares about me.”

Walker feels valued and respected at work and in her career.

“My special needs are never a barrier to my work, my performance, or my inclusion as part of a team,” she continued.

Employee Jennifer Walker (front) was one of Kaiser Permanente’s 2024 Rose Parade float participants. Also pictured is employee Alfred McCloud (back).

‘Best place to work’ for disability inclusion

At Kaiser Permanente, we foster an inclusive environment. We want everyone to reach their full potential and thrive. That’s why we’re proud to be recognized for supporting and empowering people with disabilities.

In 2024, for the eighth year in a row, we earned a top-ranking score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index. We also were among the 2024 Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion.

The American Association of People with Disabilities and Disability:IN created the Disability Equality Index and the Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion list.

Both benchmarking tools promote inclusion and equality for people with disabilities. The index evaluates companies on their culture, leadership, accessibility, employment practices, community engagement, and supplier diversity.

Creating an inclusive and accessible workplace

One of the many ways we create an inclusive work environment is through our Capability@KP business resource group.

Capability@KP provides leadership and advocacy in:

• Welcoming people with disabilities to our organization
• Creating an inclusive and accessible workplace
• Honoring the right to self-determination and independence among people with disabilities in the communities we serve

Walker is a co-lead for Capability@KP in her area. She likes that the group provides a safe, welcoming space where group members can share common experiences.

“Talking with other employees experiencing a disability really creates a sense of belonging,” she said. “As a Capability@KP leader, I get to learn from others and help them feel included, too.”

At Kaiser Permanente, our diverse hiring practices support our commitment to an inclusive environment where all people can reach their full potential and thrive.