REAL-D Data Collection

At MultiCare, ensuring health equity for all patients is key to fulfilling our mission of partnering for healing and a healthy future. Health equity means all people have the opportunity to receive high-quality, compassionate care based on their needs, regardless of race, ethnicity, disability status, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, and other factors.

To meet Washington State Department of Health requirements and provide equitable care to all patients, MultiCare will ask questions that may be new to you. While reporting demographic data to the state is mandatory for hospitals, patient participation is voluntary. You are not required to answer these questions.

You get to decide: It is up to you whether you answer these questions. We must ask them to be compliant with Washington state law (HB 1272), but you are not required to answer. For questions you do not wish to answer, you can reply with “decline” or “pass.”

Why we ask: Your answers to these questions will assist in identifying and addressing health disparities in Washington state.

Below are some questions you will be asked during scheduling and registration, referred to as REAL-D:

R – What is your race?

E – Hispanic ethnicity?

And

L – What is your language?

D – Do you have a disability?

For full details of the questions and response options, please view the MultiCare patient guidebook.

MultiCare does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, disability, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by federal or state law.

While reporting demographic data to the state is mandatory for hospitals, patient participation is voluntary. Hospitals are required to notify patients that providing this information is voluntary per RCW 43.70.052(6)(a).