Summary: What we write in clinical documentation, patient message or study description shapes how a patient is perceived and how they perceive themselves.  Our words can deeply influence a patient's sense of dignity, trust, and engagement with their care.  At the same time, our language informs how other healthcare professionals understand and interact with that patient.  When we unintentionally introduce bias or judgement through our writing, it can ripple through the care team, reinforcing stereotypes or assumptions that affect clinical decisions and patient outcomes. Thoughtful, respectful communication helps ensure that every patient is seen as a whole person, and it fosters a more equitable and compassionate healthcare environment. 

Objectives:

1. Participants will be able to understand a working definition of equity in documentation

2. Participants will understand the choice of language and its importance to patients' identities

3. Participants will understand how documentation impacts others' views of our patients