Collecting and Using

Sociodemographic and Social Determinants of Health Data

Overview

BORN Ontario is committed to advancing health equity through the systematic collection of sociodemographic (SD) and social determinants of health (SDH) data. These data help illuminate how factors such as race, income, education, housing, and access to care influence perinatal, newborn, and child health outcomes. As a prescribed registry under PHIPA, BORN collects data from Health Information Custodians (HICs) across Ontario, including all birthing hospitals and registered midwives. 

Why This Matters

Health outcomes are shaped by more than clinical care - they are deeply influenced by social and structural factors. Without comprehensive SD and SDH data, disparities in care and outcomes remain hidden. Collecting and using these data responsibly allows BORN and its partners to: 

  • Identify inequities in access and outcomes 

  • Inform targeted interventions and policies 

  • Support culturally safe and responsive care 

  • Promote accountability and transparency in healthcare

BORN's Role

BORN is leading the development of a provincial framework for collecting, governing and using sociodemographic and social determinants of health (SD/SDH) data in perinatal care.

As a prescribed registry under PHIPA, BORN collects data from Health Information Custodians (HICs) across Ontario, including all birthing hospitals and registered midwives. 

In fall 2025, BORN conducted a province-wide survey to assess the current state of SD/SDH data collection and use among its partners. The survey explored: 

  • Readiness to collect and share SD/SDH data 

  • Existing governance and policy practices 

  • Use of race-based and equity-related data 

  • Community engagement efforts 

To support this initiative, BORN hosted three webinars on August 28, August 29, and September 8, 2025. These sessions introduced the survey and featured care partner guests who shared their experiences with SD/SDH data collection and use.

Presenters highlighted how these data are being used to improve care delivery for equity-deserving groups in their communities, offering valuable insights into practical implementation and impact. 

BORN is committed to: 

  • Working alongside and learning from existing initiatives 

  • Co-developing governance approaches and expectations 

  • Supporting partners in integrating equity-focused data into their systems 

  • Promoting engagement with communities to ensure data is used to advance equity where it is most needed 

Eventually, BORN plans to establish policies governing the use, access, linking, and scope of analysis of SD/SDH data. 

Webinars

August 28th Webinar

Featuring Manavi Handa, Aideen Reynolds, and Geneviève Mosher

 

 

August 29th Webinar

Featuring Shâdé Chatrath and Dr. Crystal Clark

 

 

September 8th Webinar

Featuring Alexia Singh, Dr. Ian Zenlea, and Dr. Dianne Fierheller

 

 

Impact and Benefits of Collecting and Using SD and SDH Data

For Patients

  • More personalized and equitable care 

  • Improved access to culturally appropriate services 

  • Greater representation in health data and research 

For Providers

  • Tools to identify and address disparities 

  • Support for inclusive and responsive care practices 

  • Data to inform quality improvement and education 

For Healthcare

  • Evidence to guide equitable policy and funding decisions 

  • Improved population health monitoring 

  • Enhanced ability to evaluate interventions and outcomes  

Publications

Resources

Stay Informed

Subscribe to BORN Ontario’s news feed for updates on health equity initiatives, survey results, and upcoming publications.  

Contact Us

BORN Ontario
401 Smyth Rd
Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1

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