Creating an inclusive culture at UnitedHealth Group: Our commitment to accessibility
A mission rooted in inclusivity
UnitedHealth Group has a reputation for being a global leader in health care solutions, but what makes us truly special is our continuous commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment. After all, we recognize that each person brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table.
When it comes to building an inclusive environment, nobody says it better than Sean D., a senior instructional designer. "An inclusive environment for employees with disabilities is established through elevating different people's lived experiences, listening to others, and staying up-to-date with current research and best practices," Sean states.
In his 18 years as a member of the disabled community and as a person with type 1 diabetes, Sean has found that UnitedHealth Group has gone above and beyond to accommodate the unique challenges he faces, whether that means understanding when he needs to step away from a meeting to check his blood sugar or providing assistive software to support his work.
Creating spaces for growth and understanding: Tools and training
Sean also appreciates the resources that the company provides to promote disability inclusion and awareness. "The company has a fantastic accessibility knowledge center which houses an incredible amount of training, additional learning modules, video demos, and all kinds of other information to help you grow your knowledge on accessibility and best practices," he adds.
To further enrich this space, UnitedHealth Group has fostered a Disability Inclusion Employee Resource Group promoting accessibility, which Sean actively contributes to. In his new role as the company pillar within the Disability Inclusion Employee Resource Group, he's working on elevating conversations around invisible disabilities and raising awareness of how everyone can play an active role in this sphere.
The rewarding nature of accessible work: Mohith’s journey
Mohith, another team member working in accessibility, finds his job rewarding because he has the opportunity to spread awareness on this topic daily. "Optum has policies and support systems to encourage and support employees with disabilities to perform to their fullest," Mohith shares. Indeed, it’s through such shared perspectives and roles that UnitedHealth Group continues to innovate and adapt, ensuring that all employees have the opportunities and resources they need to excel.
Seeing the world through our members’ eyes: Marsha’s story
Marsha, a DSNP Navigator, brings her full, authentic self to work every day. Having cerebral palsy herself, she offers an invaluable perspective to our members. “I think I not only understand from a Medicaid and financial standpoint, but I also understand from a physical standpoint because of my disability,” says Marsha. Through Marsha's lived experience, she offers unique insights that inform and improve member relations, particularly for those who have disabilities.
Our ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion
The initiatives at UnitedHealth Group have not gone unnoticed. For the fourth consecutive year, the Disability Equality Index® (DEI) has recognized UnitedHealth Group as one of the best workplaces for disability inclusion.
Sean puts it succinctly: "As we continue to work towards complete accessibility and inclusion, I hope that everyone will join us on this journey."
We couldn’t agree more. Our commitment to disability inclusion is not just a set of policies; it's an integral part of who we are as a company.
Are you interested in being part of a team that values an inclusive culture for all? Join us.
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