*Sexual orientation, *Health services accessibility, *Cross-sectional method, *Gender identity, *Medical quality control, *Research funding, *Consumer attitudes, *LGBTQ+ people, *Health policy, *Cultural competence, *Multiple regression analysis, *Descriptive statistics, *Analysis of covariance, *Chi-squared test, *Mann Whitney U Test, *Surveys, *Acquisition of data, *Friedman test (Statistics), *Public health, *Health equity, *Data analysis software

Background: Despite growing recognition of the importance of collecting sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data to improve healthcare access and equity for LGBTQA+ populations, uncertainty remains around how these data are collected, their perceived importance and individuals' willingness to disclose such information in healthcare settings. The aim of this study was to understand perceptions of the collection of data on sexual orientation and gender identity in healthcare settings across Australia, and individuals' willingness to provide this data. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey of 657 Australian residents was conducted to assess participants' attitudes towards SOGI data in healthcare settings, along with preferences for methods to collect these data. Statistical analyses included ANCOVA, Chi-squared tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Results: Participants generally recognised the importance of the collection of basic demographic data to support the provision of health services. Willingness to share SOGI data varied, with significant differences noted across gender, sexual orientation and cultural backgrounds. LGBTQA+ participants expressed greater willingness to provide SOGI data, but only in contextually appropriate situations, and preferred more inclusive data collection methods. Conclusions: The study shows a context-dependent willingness to provide SOGI data in health care, underscoring the need for sensitive data collection methods. Insights into SOGI data collection attitudes are vital for developing inclusive and respectful healthcare practices. Improved SOGI data collection can enrich healthcare outcomes for diverse groups, informing public health policies and practices tailored to LGBTQA+ needs. This study explores the perceptions and willingness of Australian healthcare service users to provide sexual orientation and gender identity data. Findings reveal varying levels of willingness based on demographic factors and context, with LGBTQA+ participants showing a preference for inclusive collection methods. The study highlights the importance of sensitive and affirming approaches to sexual orientation and gender identity data collection to improve healthcare experiences and outcomes for diverse populations, informing policies for more inclusive healthcare practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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