Date of Publication
2025
Project Team
Kayla Donohue (DNP Student), Kelsey Rumley (Project Advisor), Lili Martin (Project Advisor), Daniel Weise (Site Mentor)
Abstract
LGBTQ+ individuals experience significant health disparities due to stigma, bias, and inconsistent data collection on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI). Despite national recommendations, many healthcare providers lack the tools and confidence to routinely collect SOGI data. This quality improvement project aimed to standardize SOGI data collection and enhance provider comfort in a Vermont-based adult primary care practice. Specific aims included achieving sustained utilization of a SOGI SmartForm and increasing provider comfort in collecting SOGI data by 20%. Using Everett Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation theory as a guiding framework, this initiative integrated an evidence-based SOGI SmartForm into the electronic health record (EHR), provided targeted provider education, and implemented workflow modifications. Retrospective chart reviews assessed SOGI data completeness, while pre-/post-surveys evaluated changes in provider comfort and perceptions. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, run charts, and thematic analysis of open-ended survey responses. Retrospective chart reviews showed an upward trend in SOGI data completeness across several fields, including gender identity and sexual orientation. [KR1] Provider surveys revealed a 17.5% increase in comfort with SOGI data collection and a 14.3% increase in its perceived importance. Barriers included time constraints and unfamiliar workflows, but provider education and stakeholder engagement were key facilitators of success. Standardized SOGI data collection fosters culturally responsive care and reduces LGBTQ+ health disparities. Sustained education, workflow optimization, and patient engagement are critical for long-term adoption. Future studies should evaluate the broader impact on patient outcomes and health equity.
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
Recommended Citation
Donohue, Kayla; Rumley, Kelsey J.; Martin, Lili E.; and Weise, Daniel, "Elevating LGBTQ+ Healthcare: Improving Data Collection in Primary Care" (2025). College of Nursing and Health Sciences Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Project Publications. 173.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/cnhsdnp/173
