In other countries, what primarily places the cost burden for cancer reporting on population-based cancer registries?

The primary reason that places the cost burden for cancer reporting on population-based cancer registries in other countries is the lack of ACoS (American College of Surgeons) / CoC (Commission on Cancer) accredited cancer programs.

ACoS/CoC accreditation signifies that a cancer program meets certain standards of cancer care, which includes robust data collection, reporting capabilities, and a structured approach to managing cancer data. When cancer programs lack this accreditation, it can lead to insufficient institutional support for cancer registry activities. Without well-established cancer programs, there tends to be less investment in the necessary infrastructure and personnel required to adequately collect and report cancer data, thereby putting more financial strain on population-based registries that rely on comprehensive data from all programs in their region. This scenario can result in gaps in data collection and reporting, ultimately affecting the ability to monitor cancer incidence and outcomes effectively.

On the other hand, while the lack of reporting laws and the high cost of registry professionals may contribute to challenges, it is the absence of accredited programs that has a more direct impact on creating significant cost burdens for registries engaged in cancer reporting.