**Johns Hopkins Medicine introduces “inclusive” pronoun guide and allows employees to choose names on ID badges**
Johns Hopkins Medicine recently provided staff with a comprehensive guide containing 50 gender-neutral pronouns, authorizing employees to use them on their identification badges. This move aligns with the institution’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, despite critics arguing that it could potentially damage the patient-doctor relationship.
The guide detailed various pronouns such as “Ae,” “E/Ey,” “Fae,” “Per,” “Ve,” “Xe,” and “Ze/Zie,” and demonstrated their usage in sentences. It also suggested replacing “Mr.” and “Miss” with “Mx.” when addressing those who do not identify as male or female. Staff were encouraged to always ask for a person’s preferred pronouns, if possible.
In March 2022, Johns Hopkins Medicine updated its policy to allow staff to choose a name that reflects their preferred gender identity on ID badges and wristbands. Nonetheless, employees certified in Washington, D.C., and public safety officers must carry identification that matches their legal names.
Paula Neira, the program director for JHM’s LGBTQ+ Equity and Education, noted in a podcast that recent changes to Maryland law enabled the institution to update its policy. However, Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, retired professor and board chair of Do No Harm, expressed concerns about the impact of using pronouns and names that could confuse patients, potentially damaging the patient-doctor relationship.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine spokesperson emphasized the institution’s dedication to fostering a supportive, diverse, and inclusive community, stating that people may choose to be identified for a variety of reasons. They reassured that JHM will continue to provide options to its community to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment.
**Inclusive guidelines spark debate on potential impact on patient-doctor relationship**
