The Giessen Tumor Documentation System (GTDS)--review and perspectives

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Cancer Registry Systems
• Medical Documentation

Background:

• The German Tumor Documentation System (GTDS) is utilized by over 40 German hospital cancer registries.
• This system plays a crucial role in cancer data management and analysis within these institutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and discuss the critical success factors of the GTDS.
• To analyze the system's design, development, and routine implementation in cancer registries.

Main Methods:

• Success was evaluated based on financial self-sufficiency and successful user adoption.
• Descriptive analysis of development tools, team dynamics, system functionality, and user support.
• A user survey in 1999 assessed system usage and satisfaction.

Main Results:

• GTDS is the primary tool for German hospital cancer registries, enhancing their success.
• Established a data network between hospital and population-based cancer registries, particularly in new German states.
• Registries generate valuable data analyses using common tools; physicians directly use GTDS for treatment management under certain conditions.
• Financial sustainability achieved through support contracts indicates good user acceptance; close user-developer interaction is vital.

Conclusions:

• Strong governmental support, including initial funding and support contracts, is a key success factor.
• Comprehensive functionality, system flexibility, and robust user support enable adaptation to diverse registry environments.