Patient Data Collection

What do the terms race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity mean?

“Race” refers to the group or groups that you identify with as having similar physical characteristics (skin color, hair type, eye shape) or similar social and geographic origins.

“Ethnicity” is a term which represents social groups with a shared culture, which includes shared history, sense of identity, traditions, geography, and cultural roots.

“Sexual Orientation” is about who a person is physically/emotionally attracted to.

“Gender Identity” is a person’s internal sense of their own gender, whether that is man, woman, neither, both, or something else. One’s gender identity may or may not correspond to their assigned sex. We will keep your information confidential and will update it in your record.

We are also going to ask you about the language(s) that you speak. If you prefer a language other than English, we will find someone to speak to you in your preferred language and provide translated written materials.

Wheeler does not ask anyone about immigration or citizenship status.

What does my race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity have to do with my health and wellbeing?

Although we are all individual people, studies show that our unique backgrounds may place us at differing risks for some diseases or other disparate social or educational outcomes and experiences. We can work to reduce these risks by making sure that everyone gets high quality care and equitable outcomes regardless of their background.

Who are you collecting this information from?

We are collecting this information from everyone that we serve.

What will my information be used for?

By sharing information about yourself, you are helping us provide better services and programs to you and to others like you. For example, with this information, we can provide information in languages spoken by the individuals that we serve and offer effective programs and services that can improve everyone’s health and wellbeing.

What if I don't want to answer these questions?

It is alright if you do not want to answer some or all of the questions. You can select “declined to specify” if you prefer. Whether or not you answer these questions, we will still provide you the very best possible care and services.

Who will see my information?

Only the members of your care/service team and others who are authorized to see your record.​​​​​​​

What if I don't know my race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity?

You can answer the questions by selecting a response closest to how you identify yourself, or you can say you do not know if you are unsure. If you need, our staff can help you decide the best way to answer.