In February 2023, Emerson Health began asking all patients for information related to their sexual orientation and gender identity (SO/GI). During the registration process, Emerson’s patient access staff will ask you several questions to gather this information. Your clinical team will use this information to provide the best care possible.
Why are we asking questions about sexual orientation, gender identity and pronouns?
Emerson Health is committed to providing safe and equitable healthcare to all patients. Collecting SO/GI information is a best practice, required by the state and federal government, and helps us better understand our patient population. This information is also important to know so we can assess gender specific risks that may influence your care. By having a full understanding of you as a patient, we are able to provide better, more informed care.
What will I be asked?
You will be asked for your pronouns, chosen name, birth name, sex assigned at birth, current gender identity, and sexual orientation.
Where will this information be kept and who will see it?
Your SO/GI information will live in your medical record, which is kept private and secure in accordance with your rights as a patient, and with federal and state regulations. Our staff will only access this information when necessary. You can learn more about Emerson’s commitment to patient privacy on this page.
Am I required to answer these questions?
No. If you do not wish to answer any or all of these questions, you can choose not to disclose. SO/GI questions will be asked during each encounter similar to other demographic information.
If you have questions or would like to discuss this with someone other than your provider, we encourage you to reach out to our quality and patient safety department at 978-287-3385.
