National Cancer Policy Board Report

While collecting information for a consumer pamphlet to assist cancer patients in navigating through the medical system, the National Cancer Policy Board discovered the data that were available were critically insufficient. In response, the turned their attention to analyzing our ability to assess quality of cancer care. Their findings along with ten recommendations were published in April 1999. In particular, their conclusions concerning data collection and volume outcomes surprised many in the oncology community. These comments along with five of their recommendations--high-volume settings, standard guidelines, the elements of quality care, measuring and monitoring quality care, and end-of-life care--are presented in this panel discussion.