Program Planning Resources

The CDC worked closely with each program and consulted with experts across the country to develop the 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, and 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. A standardized set of data elements called the Colorectal Cancer Clinical Data Elements (PDF-3MB) or CCDEs is used by all CRCSDP grantees and is available online.

Readiness Checklist

CDC developed a Readiness Checklist (PDF-63KB) to be used during start-up to assist CDC and programs monitor progress towards implementation. The items in the checklist corresponded to each program component: 1) the 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, and 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 online.

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 (PRD) for office visits, screening, and diagnostic procedures are being collected. A more detailed description of the economic analyses (PDF-25KB) is also available online.

Please note: Some of these publications are available for download only as *.pdf files. These files require Adobe Acrobat Reader in order to be viewed. Please review the information on downloading and using Acrobat Reader software.