Enhancing catchment area tools: A de-identification method for integrating clinical trial data with Cancer InFocus

Background: National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated cancer centers are entrusted with assessing the cancer burden within their catchment areas and using this information to guide research and outreach efforts. Data visualizations, like Cancer InFocus, have emerged as essential tools for facilitating this effort. Integrating clinical trial accrual data can further enhance our understanding of the catchment area. However, these data must be de-identified in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This study introduces a de-identification method through geographic aggregation, ensuring HIPAA compliance and enabling comprehensive catchment area surveillance.