Identifying and addressing the needs of catchment area data experts: Insights from the inaugural catchment area data conference (CADC23)

Background: NCI-Designated Cancer Centers must identify their catchment areas and address cancer burden through research and community engagement, highlighting the role of catchment area data experts. Few studies evaluate roles, needs, and opportunities for catchment analytics in cancer centers. This manuscript examines survey responses about catchment area data analytics administered at the inaugural Catchment Area Data Conference.Methods: A Catchment Area Data Assessment Survey gathered insights from conference attendees. The 17-question survey aimed to describe current responsibilities and opportunities in catchment area data, including staffing, data acquisition, and analysis.Results: Two-thirds (66%) of respondents reported no specific department housed catchment area data analytics in their respective cancer center, 31% cited resource constraints as a frequent challenge, and there were disagreements on the adequacy of staff for catchment area analytics.Discussion Funding and budget of Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) offices are influenced by the need for catchment area analytics, including data, personnel, and technology. However, in our sample, COE departments are not where catchment area data are primarily housed. It was evident that, despite varied organizational structures, staffing adequacy, and resource allocation, there is a need for improved communication and understanding between responsible parties involved in catchment area analytics.