Wisconsin Cancer Reporting System (WCRS) Reporting Announcements

This page provides resources for those reporting cancer cases to the Wisconsin Cancer Reporting System.

WCRS 2022 Required Data Item List

The WCRS 2022 Required Data Items list is available in two formats, PDF and Excel. Data item requirements apply to all reporting facilities, regardless of CoC accreditation status.

• 2022 Required Data Items (PDF)
• 2022 Required Data Items (Excel)

WCRS 2021 Reporting Manual and Data Dictionary

In 2021, the WCRS Coding Manual underwent many revisions to simplify the contents and decrease duplication of information readily available in other standard-setter manuals. The manual was also split into two distinct portions – Reporting Manual and Data Dictionary. Historically, these sections had been combined in a single document. Cancer reporters should download and review both the Reporting Manual and Data Dictionary. 

• WCRS 2021 Reporting Manual, P-00832-21 (PDF)
• WCRS 2021 Data Dictionary, P-00832b (PDF) – contains an alphabetical list of required data items along with descriptions, coding instructions, reference tables, and more.

WCRS 2021 Reporting Changes Quick Reference Guide

This Quick Reference Guide was created to serve as a summary of 2021 changes specific to Wisconsin reporting requirements for cases diagnosed beginning January 1, 2021. Reporters should refer to appropriate manuals for complete coding instructions.

WCRS 2021 Reporting Changes Quick Reference Guide (P-02926) (PDF)

WCRS 2021 Required Data Item List

The WCRS 2021 Required Data Items list is available in two formats, PDF and Excel. Data item requirements apply to all reporting facilities, regardless of CoC accreditation status.

• 2021 Required Data Items (PDF)
• 2021 Required Data Items (Excel)

Timely Reporting Calendars for 2021-2022 Diagnosis Years

Completed cases should be submitted to WCRS within six months of date of diagnosis, or date of initial contact if diagnosed elsewhere. Breast cancer cases should be submitted to WCRS within 12 months of date of diagnosis or date of initial contact if diagnosed elsewhere.

Importance of Reporting Patient Race and Ethnicity to WCRS

WCRS and all state cancer registries in the National Program of Cancer Registries ask health care providers to report patient race and ethnicity. Detailed race and ethnicity information on cancer patients can help improve clinical care, help effectively target cancer prevention and early detection programs, and help the targeting of health education and promotion messaging. For purposes of cancer registration at reporting facilities and at WCRS, listing the patient’s race, ethnicity, tribal affiliation, and place of birth facilitates the accurate classification of a patient’s racial and ethnic heritage.