Which organization’s rules are used to determine patient residency at diagnosis for central registries?

The determination of patient residency at the time of diagnosis for central registries is guided by the standards established by the U.S. Census Bureau. This is because the U.S. Census Bureau provides data classifications, geographical definitions, and demographic information that are essential for delineating residency. Accurate residency data is crucial for cancer registry purposes, as it impacts epidemiological studies, resource allocation, and understanding geographical disparities in cancer incidence and outcomes.

While the SEER Program and the National Program of Cancer Registries (NPCR) both play significant roles in cancer surveillance and reporting, their guidelines are often aligned with census definitions. The U.S. Postal Service primarily influences postal addresses, but it does not serve as a definitive source for residency classification in a healthcare context. Therefore, the U.S. Census Bureau is the primary resource for determining residency at diagnosis for central cancer registries.