How to Ask the Question

Before we begin, how does the idea of asking “Are you of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin?” make you feel? Research suggests that the common reasons, difficulties or concerns healthcare workers have in asking the question include:

• Fear of provoking aggressive responses (from both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people) • Data is used to justify bureaucracy (i.e. funding) • Response may have a bearing on the standard of treatment the patient receives (better or worse) • Might offend the patient In reading these statements, which ones resonate with you?

When it comes to asking the patient, it is important to use the standard phrase consistently, each and every time you treat a patient. The standard way to ask is ‘are you of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin?’ Ask the question consistently and uniformly of all patients – do not modify. Changing the wording, even slightly, has the potential to alter the meaning of the question and may influence the patient’s response The timing of when to ask the question is up to you and may differ with each episode of care. As a guide, aim to ask as soon as practical during patient assessment (for example, when asking other standard questions or when observations are being taken) If you feel a pre-amble is necessary, say ‘the following information will assist in the planning and provision of appropriate and improved health care services’.