Computerizing the cancer centre

This article describes a PC-based computer network that caters for the clinical information needs of a cancer centre, crossing specialty boundaries and involving all members of the multidisciplinary team. Data are captured at all stages of patients' progress, from diagnosis through to treatment and follow-up. Office automation is integral to the system, which produces work-load and process audit information as well as clinical outcomes. Data are entered prospectively at the point of care by health care professionals, ensuring a high degree of clinical confidence. It incorporates internationally recognized datasets and its modular structure facilitates implementation and development.