We Ask Because We Care
At Sturdy Health, we may ask you questions about yourself during your appointment or visit. Questions may include your preferred language, religious preferences, background, living situation, gender identity, or other topics. This information helps us tailor our care to you in efforts to deliver the best possible care. We ask because we care, and we want to ensure that you, as our patient, get the best, safest, and most equitable care possible.
What questions will I be asked? All patients who are 18 years and older have an opportunity to provide information about their:
- Race and ethnicity,
- Preferred language,
- Self-reported disability status and accommodation need,
- Gender identity, and
- Sexual orientation
Why does Sturdy Health ask these questions? This information helps us treat each patient with courtesy and respect. We use this information to:
- Better understand our community
- Identify and address any gaps that exist and affect your healthcare
- Provide care that is culturally sensitive to our patients
- Understand the need for interpreter services and accessibility support
- Support programs that improve our quality of care
How do I provide this information? You may provide this information in advance of your visit through the digital check-in process for an upcoming appointment, or in person upon arrival (in a safe and private space) at our hospital or provider's office.
Who will see this information? This information becomes part of your medical record. As with all of your health information, your answers are kept confidential and securely protected by Sturdy Health and will only be shared with your healthcare providers and others who are authorized to see your medical record.
I've answered questions like this before. Doesn't Sturdy Health already have this information about me? This information may change over time for some individuals. We ask periodically to ensure the information we have is accurate so we can continue to provide excellent care.
What if I don't feel comfortable answering some of these questions? Providing your data is entirely your choice. We ask because we care about serving you and our community better.
If you have questions or would like to update your information, you can access your patient information or send a message to your provider through the patient portal.
