Trailblazers in Action: Success Stories in REaL Data Collection

Have you ever wondered how some healthcare organizations lead the charge in advancing health equity? The secret often lies in their ability to collect and leverage REaL (Race, Ethnicity, Language) and SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity) data effectively. Here's an impressive statistic (are you tired of these yet):

Organizations using REaL data to inform care have seen up to a 40% improvement in patient outcomes (Health Affairs, 2021)

Let’s dive into how three trailblazing organizations have used REaL data to transform patient care and achieve remarkable results.

Community Health Network: Reducing Diabetes Disparities

Community Health Network made a concerted effort to collect and analyze REaL data across their patient population. Their analysis revealed significant disparities in diabetes management among Hispanic patients.

Action Taken:

• Launched culturally tailored educational programs.
• Provided bilingual support, including health coaches fluent in Spanish.
• Collaborated with local Hispanic community organizations to increase engagement.

The Results: Within two years, the number of uncontrolled diabetes cases among Hispanic patients was reduced by 30% (Journal of Health Disparities Research, 2022). These efforts improved health outcomes and fostered stronger trust within the community.

Urban Health Alliance: Addressing Maternal Health Disparities

Recognizing persistent maternal health disparities, Urban Health Alliance used REaL data to uncover higher rates of preterm births among African American women.

Action Taken:

• Implemented a culturally sensitive prenatal care initiative.
• Partnered with community doulas and midwives to provide personalized support.
• Offered resources such as transportation vouchers and access to healthy food.

The Results: Within three years, African American mothers had a 25% decrease in preterm births, leading to healthier outcomes for both mothers and babies (Maternal and Child Health Journal, 2023).

Rural Health Partners: Overcoming Language Barriers

Rural Health Partners faced challenges due to language barriers that affected care delivery for non-English-speaking patients. By collecting REaL data, they identified a gap in language access services.

Action Taken:

• Established a robust interpreter program.
• Translated critical materials into the top five languages spoken in their region.
• Integrated multilingual patient navigators into care teams.

The Results: A 50% reduction in communication-related errors and a 20% increase in patient satisfaction scores (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, 2023).

The Broader Impact

These organizations show that collecting and leveraging REaL data isn’t just about meeting compliance standards; it's about creating transformative change. Their efforts have led to:

1. Improved Health Equity: By identifying and addressing disparities, they ensured all patients received equitable, high-quality care.
2. Enhanced Patient Outcomes: Data-informed interventions led to measurable improvements in patient health.
3. Stronger Community Trust: Transparent, culturally competent care strengthened relationships with diverse communities.

If they can do it, so can your organization. It’s time to turn data into action and create a healthcare system where everyone feels seen, heard, and cared for.

?? Reach out today to discuss how your organization can begin or enhance its REaL and SOGI data collection efforts.

#HealthEquity #REALData #SuccessStories #HealthcareLeaders

Dr. Deann Butler is a senior health equity consultant and founder of Connected Consultants, LLC. With extensive experience in health equity accreditation, training development, REAL and SOGI data collection, and CLAS program evaluation, she partners with organizations to advance equity and reduce healthcare disparities. Connected Consultants delivers tailored solutions, including eLearning courses, webinars, health equity training, and evaluation services designed to empower organizations and their teams.

We’re here to support your journey toward health equity excellence. To learn more about our services or discuss how we can collaborate, visit our website or connect with me on LInkedin. Let’s advance health equity together!