A scoping review of frameworks that guide race and ethnicity data collection in health settings: Learnings for the Canadian health setting.

objectivesDisparities in health outcomes exist among racial and ethnic minorities in Canada. However, no detailed and representative population-level data document these disparities, except for Indigenous populations. We aimed to identify frameworks for collecting race and ethnicity data in health settings and synthesize data collection practices to guide healthcare leaders on how practices could be standardized within the Canadian health system.

methodsUsing a scoping review method, we identified primary studies, review articles, and grey literature that include frameworks or other recommendations on race and ethnicity data collection and extracted data about their characteristics, context, attributes, and components. We summarized the data using frequencies and descriptions. SYNTHESIS: We identified 23 frameworks from the United States (n = 14) and Canada (n = 9). While 18 frameworks have been used in hospitals, health centers, public health units, and a clinical trial, five were developed as recommendations. Only few framework developers involved various stakeholder groups and used paper and electronic methods to collect race and ethnicity information from patients. All frameworks from the USA share a similar reference point for race and ethnicity categories, unlike those from Canada.

conclusionThese findings provide a foundation for race and ethnicity data collection practices. Data collection can begin by engaging relevant stakeholders to develop or adapt an existing framework collaboratively. The goal should be to standardize collection practices, ensuring that racial and ethnic classifications can be aggregated to a national scale for decision-making for improved health outcomes for all.