What data fields are collected in the LCSR?
The ACR Lung Cancer Screening Registry (LCSR) is designed to systematically audit the quality of the interpretation of screening lung CT exams. The registry is based on the ACR Lung Imaging Reporting and Data System (Lung-RADS), which is the product of the ACR Lung Cancer Screening Committee subgroup on Lung-RADS. This Lung-RADS system is a quality assurance tool designed to standardize lung cancer screening CT reporting and management recommendations, reduce confusion in lung cancer screening CT interpretations, and facilitate outcome monitoring.
To assist in the structured collection of data, the fields of information are defined. Each is cataloged in accordance with usage and accepted type of response. When originally launched, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) specified certain data fields as 'Required.' Additional measures have been added by the ACR based on recommendations of their physician oversight committee, which suggested more data fields in order to monitor quality appropriately.
In February 2022, the CMS announced a national coverage determination (NCD) expanding coverage for lung cancer screening with low dose computed tomography (LDCT) to improve health outcomes for people with lung cancer. This lifted the mandate of data collection through the LCSR citing the reduction of the administrative burden on providers and institutions.
The listing of data fields is compiled into The American College of Radiology Lung Cancer Screening Registry (LSCR) Data Dictionary. This data dictionary is frequently revised. Be sure to check this link for the most current version.