News|Articles|June 23, 2025

Culture Key to Data Collection of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Cancer Care

Fact checked by: Giuliana Grossi

This research highlights the key factors, like leadership buy-in, mandatory protocols, and electronic health record workflows, that influence the effective collection of data on sexual orientation and gender identity in outpatient oncology clinics to improve patient-centered care.

Despite the clear importance of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data in addressing health care disparities and accurately representing diverse patient populations, its routine integration into cancer care remains inconsistent. New research published online today in JAMA Network Open identifies key factors that either promote or hinder the consistent gathering of this crucial information in US outpatient oncology clinics. These findings offer valuable insights for guiding tailored clinical care, informing policy, and fostering inclusivity.1