DPH reports stronger SOGI data capture and shows targeted outreach model used for mpox

The Department of Public Health reported progress in collecting sexual-orientation and gender-identity (SOGI) data across its services and highlighted a programmatic use: targeted outreach for mpox vaccination.

Dr. Holly Hammer, director of ambulatory care, told commissioners the department has improved collection performance since last year's report and is using the data to reach specific patient groups. Hammer cited Laguna Honda, primary care and certain ambulatory units as high performers. She said some declines in behavioral-health and substance-use SOGI capture are linked to telehealth workflows that bypass registration steps.

Hammer described a targeted outreach effort: primary-care teams identified nearly 5,000 patients whose records suggested eligibility for mpox vaccination and sent text invitations based on SOGI and prior encounter history. The effort aimed to prioritize network patients during limited vaccine supply and to reduce barriers to care.

Presenters noted operational challenges: different sections use different EHR fields and definitions, jail intake captures only gender identity, and paper forms can lead to skipped questions. Hammer said planned steps include retraining staff, a possible Epic build for a "real name" field, and sharing best practices across sections to standardize workflows and improve capture rates.

Commissioners praised the progress and asked about alternatives for residents who cannot use iPads during surveys; presenters said staff would assist at bedside and that the department expects primary care to sustain 90%+ weekly capture rates once workflows are normalized.