In 2021, the state of Washington directed hospitals to report patient sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data (WAC 246-455-025). It was soon clear that tricky questions needed answers before the law could be effectively implemented. How could caregivers ensure patients felt safe providing very personal information? Did different collection methods — like spoken, written or entered in online portals — face different privacy concerns? Were staff trained on LGBTQ+ health?
To help address these challenges, WSHA convened subject matter experts to design a new data collection framework for hospitals. Crucially, collection needs to be patient-centered, focused on privacy and dignity, and supportive of frontline staff. Talking about SOGI should feel affirming and create more inclusive healthcare experiences.
Launching a new program at complex institutions is a major achievement and the work is continuously evolving. Now, to highlight their efforts, WSHA is recognizing several Washington hospitals for their work achieving patient-centered SOGI data collection.
Part I: Fred Hutch Cancer Center
What does exceptional SOGI data collection look like? At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center (“Fred Hutch”), it’s a commitment to inclusive, respectful healthcare reflected in patient access, staff training and community collaboration.
Patients may self-identify in their personal profile in the MyChart portal or volunteer their SOGI data directly to staff. Nurses also collect data at the bedside during inpatient stays.
Key to Fred Hutch’s success is collaboration with UW Medicine nurses, bolstered by robust relationships within the healthcare community and patient input in the collection process.
LGBTQIA+ Inclusion in Cancer Care, Research, and Work Environments, also known as SOGI Spectrum is a cornerstone of Fred Hutch’s staff training. Launched in September 2023, the module equips staff with knowledge, language and best practices to support LBGTQIA+ patients and coworkers.
Developed in-house by Dr. Joe Ungco, SOGI Spectrum explores care disparities and engages staff with videos, quizzes and reflection exercises to build a welcoming and inclusive environment. Tailored content ensures relevant guidance based on staff roles and responsibilities. By July 2024, 80% of Fred Hutch’s workforce had completed SOGI Spectrum.
“The inspiring and thought-provoking content of the SOGI Spectrum Training exceeded my expectations,” Fred Hutch Senior Manager of Service Excellence Christy Satterlee said. “I had anticipated a module-based class providing basic education, I did not expect to be fully drawn into the stories and how this thinking could be applied to creating a solid foundation for our culture of inclusivity. The class concepts broadened my outlook for the way I approach both my work and personal life. The positive message threaded throughout made it approachable and engaging; I was delighted to take part, and I think the training would benefit any organization.”
Tiffany Go, Health Equity Senior Manager, shared that Fred Hutch is already planning next steps to improve the experience for LGBTQ+ patients. While the center provides all-gender restrooms, there is a need for better signage and wayfinding. They are also exploring how to rebrand their “Women’s Clinic” to reflect a more gender inclusive comprehensive approach to patient care.
Fred Hutch’s experience applying for SOGI recognition offers valuable lessons. The application process encouraged the Center to gather a broad and diverse team to discuss each domain, from staff training to patient care. Tiffany shared, “It was an interesting exercise to bring together different disciplines to converse; it challenged us to push boundaries and discuss where we felt we were as an organization within each domain.”
For Fred Hutch, creating a safe, unbiased experience isn’t just about meeting state requirements — it’s lifesaving work, particularly for gender diverse patients. Understanding the deeper purpose behind inclusive practices is the foundation for genuine change and honoring patient identity. Their goal as an organization is to create a safe, comfortable environment where everyone belongs. We continue to be passionate and persistent in advancing change to improve experiences for our patients.
Congratulations to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center for earning WSHA’s SOGI Recognition!
Sincerely
Abigail Berube
Director, Clinical Excellence
Health Equity, Patient and Family Engagement
abigailb@wsha.org