Outcome Assessment in Radiation Oncology

Improvements in medical practice most often are based on the analysis of our past performance. With the increased emphasis in the United States on managed care, the examination of our clinical performance has taken on increased importance. In addition to traditional tumor registries and clinical trials, we are being asked to substantiate the quality of our practice for purchasers such as third-party intermediaries and industry. Data collection can often be done on existing departmental and hospital information resources. Industry-wide standards such as HL7 and DICOM further support this effort. Selection of the best computer hardware, networks, and software is critical to effective clinic and patient management.