Federal Grant Award Summary

Pacific Institute for Research & Evaluation received a $2.45 million Project Grant from the National Institute of Nursing Research (CFDA 93.361, Nursing Research program) awarded on July 1, 2026, with a completion date of June 30, 2029. This research initiative will conduct a multilevel, mixed-method implementation science study testing the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of strategies to integrate Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) data collection across New Mexico's 53 public health offices operated by the New Mexico Department of Health. The study will evaluate implementation approaches across diverse urban, rural, and frontier contexts to advance health equity for sexual and gender-diverse populations.

The project will deliver research-based evidence and implementation guidance for integrating voluntary self-reported SOGI data collection within existing public health service delivery systems, including immunizations, family planning, substance use harm reduction, sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment, and other clinical services. Products will include analysis of data collection uptake and sustainment, evaluation of implementation strategy effectiveness across different patient populations and geographic settings, and actionable findings to inform policy and funding decisions. The research will establish New Mexico as a model for other states seeking to routinize SOGI demographic data collection processes and develop equity-focused, evidence-based interventions to address health disparities among sexual and gender-diverse populations.