DFCI Logo
DFCI Logo

Demographic Questions – Why We Ask

    In this section

    We Ask Because We Care

    As part of the patient registration process, Dana-Farber asks questions about your demographics, such as your race, ethnicity, preferred language, sexual orientation, and gender identity. By sharing this information with us, you help us to better understand the communities we serve, and to ensure that all Dana-Farber patients receive equitable care.

    To review or update your demographic information, please use one of these steps:

    • Log into Patient Gateway. Click on the Menu, then scroll down to Personal Information, under Account Settings. Review and update your information in the Details About Me section -or-
    • Call our registration department at 617-582-9823 -or-
    • Tell us when you visit: Stop by Central Registration at Dana-Farber's Longwood or Chestnut Hill locations, or the front desk at any of our other locations.

    Why This Information Matters

    At Dana-Farber, we want to deliver top-notch care that best meets your needs. Having accurate demographic information helps our healthcare professionals know how to best care for you. Knowing this information gives us insight into the needs of our diverse patient populations and helps us to create services and programs to better serve the health needs of our community. It also helps ensure that we give you the best quality care.

    Your Information Is Protected

    All of your demographic information at Dana-Farber is confidential. Your personal information is part of your medical record, protected by strict privacy rules. By law, Dana-Farber can use or disclose this information only when it is necessary for treatment, billing, or operational purposes. Learn more about how we protect your privacy.

    Answering demographic questions is voluntary, but it helps us to better serve you and all of our patients. If you have questions about updating your demographic information, please email dfciregistration@dfci.harvard.edu or call 617-582-9823.