We ask our patients questions about their lives to better understand their backgrounds and ensure we are giving them the best care possible. We can help connect our patients with UI Health Care support services, as well as local community resources that will benefit their overall health and quality of life. We know that patients have better health outcomes when they have the resources they need for daily life.
We ask patients about their race, ethnicity, and language to make sure we’re providing them with the best health care experience.
We also ask about the social drivers of health:
- Housing Instability
- Food Insecurity
- Utility Difficulties
- Interpersonal Safety
- Transportation Needs
Helping patients connect to these resources when needed can improve their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
FAQs
We care about your health, and social needs play a huge role in keeping you healthy and safe. Our goal for asking these questions is to give you the best care and connect you with any resources that may help you or your family. All adult patients are asked the same questions.
No, you do not have to answer these questions. You will get the same high level of care whether you answer the questions or not.
The information you share will go in your electronic medical record. It will be privacy-protected by HIPAA, like all your health information.