National Program of Cancer Registries Program Evaluation Instrument

Cancer registries currently submit information about registry operations to CDC on an annual basis via a secure, web-based Annual Program Evaluation Instrument (APEI) (OMB 0920-0706, exp. 12/31/2008). During the next OMB approval period, CDC proposes to change the data collection frequency from annual to every other year, with data collection occurring only in odd-numbered years. This change will reduce burden to respondents. The project title and the instrument will be revised to reflect the change in data collection frequency (from National Program of Cancer Registries Annual Program Evaluation Instrument (NPCR-APEI) to National Program of Cancer Registries Program Evaluation Instrument (NPCR-PEI)). The Program Evaluation Instrument (NCPR-PEI) includes questions about the following categories of registry operations: (1) Staffing, (2) legislation, (3) administration, (4) reporting completeness, (5) data exchange, (6) data content and format, (7) data quality assurance, (8) data use, (9) collaborative relationships, (10) advanced activities, (11) ``success stories'' that summarize ways in which CCR data are used, and (12) survey feedback. Examples of information that can be obtained from various questions include, but are not limited to: (1) Number of filled full-time staff positions by position responsibility; (2) legislation protecting the confidentiality of CCR data; (3) data quality control activities; (4) data collection activities as they relate to achieving NPCR standards for data completeness; and (5) whether or not registry data are used for comprehensive cancer control programs, needs assessment/program planning, clinical studies, or incidence and mortality estimates.