At MedStar Health, we are committed to providing the highest quality care to every patient—regardless of race, ethnicity, language, or cultural background.
We strive to make sure all patients have equal access to the highest quality and safest care. To support this mission, we may ask questions about your background and preferred language. You can update your information at any time.
Sharing this information is your choice—and it’s always confidential. We ask because we care about you and the well-being of every patient we serve.
At MedStar Health, your health comes first.
Frequently asked questions
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Why do you ask for my race, ethnicity, and other demographic information?
We want to make sure that all our patients receive the highest quality of care and the best services possible. We use this information to:
- Better understand and serve the needs of our community with empathy and respect
- Support the provision of interpreter services to facilitate effective and high-quality care
- Inform our efforts to make quality initiatives more effective
- Comply with legal and regulatory obligations
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Is providing this information mandatory?
No, answering these questions are voluntary. Providing this will help ensure that everyone receives the highest quality of care and the best services possible.
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Who will see the information?
This information is confidential. We limit access to patient information, including race and ethnicity. It is used by people involved in your care, registration staff, administrators, and those involved in quality improvement.
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How do you protect my personal information?
Your information is stored securely in our system and only accessible to authorized personnel who are involved in your care. We follow all privacy regulations and are committed to safeguarding your data at all times.
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Can I update or change my information later?
Yes, you can update your information at any time. If any of your personal details change, such as your preferred language or contact information, feel free to let us know, and we will update your records accordingly.
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Will my information be shared with the state or federal government?
We will not share your name, contact information, or any personally identifying details with anyone. Any information we report to the state or other agencies is shared only in aggregated or de-identified form — meaning it cannot be traced back to you. This protects your privacy while allowing us to meet reporting requirements and improve care for our communities.