Funding outcome

Hospitals are collecting more information about patients’ backgrounds, such as race, language, and social needs. This type of information, called sociodemographic data, can help identify unfair differences in care and outcomes for children and families. For example, it can show if some groups are waiting longer for care, having worse experiences, or facing more barriers. It can also help the hospital better care for children and families, for example, offering cultural supports. However, collecting this data is only the first step. Many hospitals are still unsure how to use this information in meaningful and responsible ways. In some cases, data are collected but not acted on. In others, families may feel uncomfortable sharing personal information if they do not understand why it is being collected or how it will be used. These challenges can reduce trust and limit the impact of this work. This study will look at how pediatric hospitals across Canada collect and use sociodemographic data, and what happens when differences in care for different groups are identified. We will survey healthcare leaders, review hospital policies and documents, and conduct interviews to better understand how decisions around data collection and use are made. We will also explore how responsibility is shared across individuals and organizations when action based on this data is needed. This project will include patient and family perspectives and will pay special attention to the respectful and appropriate use of Indigenous data. This research will help to develop a practical framework to help hospitals use this information in clear and effective ways. This will support better decision-making and help ensure that all children and families receive high-quality, equitable care.