An IT Platform Supporting Rectal Cancer Tumor Board Activities: Implementation Process and Impact Analysis

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Digital Health
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer worldwide, with increasing incidence.
• Multidisciplinary tumor boards (MTBs) are crucial for optimal CRC patient management.
• Digital health solutions offer potential to enhance MTB effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of a digital platform for a CRC-MTB.
• To analyze the impact of this digital solution on MTB operations and patient care pathways.
• To evaluate the platform's effectiveness in a clinical setting.

Main Methods:

• A two-phase methodological approach was employed: qualitative description of implementation and quantitative impact analysis.
• The study involved descriptive and inferential statistical analyses.
• The IT platform was integrated into the hospital's existing IT system.

Main Results:

• Increased healthcare professional participation in MTB meetings.
• Reduced referrals for re-staging and further diagnostic investigations.
• Increased referrals for treatment strategy discussions.
• Facilitated remote specialist access and platform integration contributed to positive outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Digital health solutions can effectively support CRC-MTBs, improving efficiency and patient management.
• Remote access and IT integration are key factors for successful digital health implementation in MTBs.
• Early involvement of healthcare professionals in platform customization enhances usability and impact.