Race, ethnicity, preferred language (REaL): Why health care providers should ask patients
GDAHC's "Get REaL" Campaign highlights the importance of these questions
You just arrived at your doctor's office. While they discuss your medical concerns, they ask for your race, ethnicity and preferred language. There is tremendous value to these questions. However, there are misconceptions. Many believe the information is gathered just to fulfill heath care law requirements. Others feel the information may be used against them when determining options for care. There is a REaL benefit to your health care and that of our communities by asking for race, ethnicity and preferred language.
GDAHC's "Get REaL" Campaign
When a health care provider knows your race and ethnicity, they can better treat you and look for conditions that are more likely to occur in certain communities, such as high blood pressure among African Americans.
When a health care provider knows your preferred language, they can have someone speak with you in the language you are most comfortable with so that you fully understand your care recommendations.
The "Get REaL" Campaign developed by the Greater Detroit Area Health Council (GDAHC) informs both consumers and health care providers of the importance that collecting this information has on your care and that of our communities.
We encourage you to forward this message to share this video with colleagues, family and friends. Also, contact GDAHC at 313-963-4990 or email us for helpful materials.
Monday March 2, 2015 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago - Detroit Branch 1600 E. Warren Ave Detroit, MI 48207
Population Health Forum a Success
Hosted by the Greater Detroit Area Health Council and the Detroit Wayne County Health Authority
Nearly 190 health care stakeholders attended the 2015 Population Health Forum on Monday, March 2, 2015. National expert Jonathan Heller led a thorough presentation and discussion on "Health in All Policies" -- whether economic, social or environmental policies. Read the articles from The Detroit News and Crain's Detroit Business.
