Developing catchment area data dashboards for cancer centers: A stakeholder-engaged approach

Abstract

Background: Communicating complex and diverse catchment area data effectively can transform cancer prevention and care delivery and strengthen community engagement efforts of cancer centersObjective: Describe a systematic, stakeholder-driven, and theory-based approach for developing catchment area data visualization tools for cancer centersMethods: Cancer-relevant catchment area data were identified from cancer registries, national surveys, and administrative databases. A prototype for data visualization was designed, developed, and tested based on the Organize, Plan, Test, and Integrate framework. A working group collected stakeholder feedback through formative assessment. Understandability and actionability of the visualization tool were measured and open-ended feedback was collected.Results: A visualization dashboard, illustrating cancer incidence and mortality, risk factors, healthcare access, and social determinants for the Hollings Cancer Center catchment area, was developed. Color-coded maps, time-series plots, and graphs illustrated catchment area data. A total of 21 participants representing key stakeholders participated. Understandability and actionability scores exceeded 80%, and themes from qualitative data informed further improvisation. Integration of communication efforts and messages within a broader context is in progress.Discussion: A cancer center catchment area data visualization tool developed through a systematic, stakeholder-driven, and theory-based approach has high understandability and actionability, and is well-received by stakeholders.

Keywords

• Data visualization
• cancer center
• catchment area
• community outreach
• cancer center support grant