Adaptations to a regional cancer information system for transfer of data to the Spanish system
G Bargues-Navarro, M Martínez-Matilla, A Vizcaíno Batllés, N Jeghalef El Karoui, F Botella Quijal, L Garcia-Villodre, L Barrachina-Bonet, C Cavero-CarbonellAbstract
Background
Spain is developing the national cancer information system (SIVICA), whose objective is to collect, analyse, interpret, and disseminate cancer epidemiological information at the national level in a coordinated manner, following the recommendations of international organisations. It currently includes the cancer surveillance of colorectal, breast, and cervix tumours. In the Valencian Region, the cancer information system (SIC‑CV) conducts cancer epidemiological surveillance across the entire territory, using data derived from healthcare activity.
Methods
The SIC‑CV analysed the content of the SIVICA Procedure Manual and Metadata to identify the adaptations required to ensure national interoperability and the structured, standardised transfer of data to SIVICA. The necessary modifications were implemented in the software used to record cancer cases, known as VENT‑NEOS.
Results
The following modifications were identified for implementation in VENT‑NEOS: (1) incorporation of new variables, linked to the staging coding system, allowing the collection of additional information on patient, tumour, and diagnostic process some of which were not previously recorded or were not structured in a compatible format; (2) adaptation of existing coding system through the creation of equivalence tables; and (3) automation of processes through the development of a data extraction and analysis module for submission to SIVICA. In addition, a new specific internal workflow procedure was defined.
Conclusions
The adaptation of VENT‑NEOS to the SIVICA reference framework has ensured the interoperability and standardization required for the transfer of SIC‑CV data to SIVICA. This experience demonstrates the feasibility of aligning regional cancer information systems with SIVICA’s framework and may guide other regions, supporting the consolidation of Spain’s national cancer information system for health planning.
Funding
Ministry of Health, Spain
Key messages
• Valencian regional cancer information system (SIC-CV) was adapted to ensure interoperable and standardized data transfer to Spanish system (SIVICA).
• SIC CV integration with SIVICA strengthens the capacity of Spain’s national cancer surveillance system, which is essential for accurately prevention, diagnosis and national health planning.