Implementation of sexual orientation and gender identity data collection in a cancer care setting

Cancer research focusing on sexual and gender minority populations is limited by lack of sexual orientation and gender identity data in medical records and cancer registries. We implemented multimethod sexual orientation and gender identity data collection in 2 pilot clinics at a National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, with first-line collection by telephone intake schedulers and second-line via physical form in clinics. Changes in data completion were compared with 2 control clinics, and staff shared intervention experiences. In pilot clinics, completion rates statistically significantly increased for gender identity (from 55.6% to 65.1%), sex assigned at birth (from 58.4% to 63.2%), sexual orientation (from 45.1% to 53.7%), and all 3 (from 37.8% to 44.7%) when compared with control clinics (P < .05). Staff reported a mix of patient reactions to sexual orientation and gender identity data collection. Sexual orientation and gender identity data collection can be enhanced in the cancer care setting with multimethod approaches.