Question 1

What is Health Equity?

Accepted Answer

Many factors impact the wellbeing and health of a person. Examples are race, language, and income. Health equity means all people get fair access to resources, and support.  It does not matter where they live, what they have or who they are. Health equity supports everyone's unique needs.

Question 2

What is sociodemographic data?

Accepted Answer

This is data collected about a person. For example, race, gender, and sexual orientation.

Question 3

Why is CCHC collecting sociodemographic data?

Accepted Answer

It gives us a picture of the community we serve. We can see who accesses our services and what services are the most needed. It allows us to make more informed decisions. For each client it also flags services that could benefit them.  Collecting this information helps us provide better services.

Question 4

Where does my information go?

Accepted Answer

The information you share becomes part of your confidential client record. Only staff involved in your care or programs can see this information.
It is treated as personal health information and is protected under Ontario’s Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA), just like your test results and other sensitive medical information.

Question 5

Is it legal to ask these questions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It is encouraged by the Ontario Human Rights Commission.

Question 6

How is this relevant to patient care?

Accepted Answer

We want to provide care based on our client needs. We don’t want to make any assumptions about client needs or who our clients are. For example, when we know a client doesn’t speak English, we can get interpreter services.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions