Planning Resources for the Colorectal Cancer Screening Demonstration Program

CDC worked closely with each program and consulted with experts across the country to develop the colorectal cancer screening demonstration program (CRCSDP). Several tools were developed.

CRCSDP Policy Manual

A CRCSDP Policy Manual (PDF-201KB) was created specifically for this demonstration program. Each site also created individual policies which typically mirrored CDC policies created for the overall program. Program policies addressed the following categories—

1. Patient eligibility.
2. Reimbursement.
3. Reporting of medical complications.
4. Data and reporting.
5. Medical advisory committees.

Colorectal Cancer Clinical Data Elements

Screening and diagnostic data are collected on all clients served through the CRCSDP. These data include information on client demographics, screening history and risk factors, screening and diagnostic tests provided, diagnosis, and data on cancer treatment initiation. All CRCSDP grantees use a standardized set of data elements called the Colorectal Cancer Clinical Data Elements (PDF-3MB).

Readiness Checklist

CDC developed a Readiness Checklist (PDF-63KB) to use during start-up to help CDC and programs monitor progress toward implementation. The items in the checklist correspond to each program component—

1. Provision of screening and diagnostic follow-up services.
2. Public education and outreach.
3. Data collection and tracking.
4. Patient support.
5. Partnership development and maintenance.
6. Quality assurance and professional development.
7. Program management.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Algorithm

An individual patient's risk status should be assessed to determine when colorectal cancer screening should begin, what tests should be used, and what intervals are appropriate for surveillance screening. An overview of the Colorectal Cancer Screening Algorithm (PDF-32KB) used in the CRCSDP is available.

Economic Analyses

In collaboration with the CRCSDP programs, CDC is conducting economic analyses throughout the demonstration period. A cost assessment tool has been developed to collect data on costs related to start-up activities and program implementation. In addition, program reimbursement data for office visits, screening, and diagnostic procedures are being collected. A more detailed description of the economic analyses (PDF-25KB) is also available.