A Clinical Consensus Approach to Developing a New Funding Model for Radiation Services in Ontario.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario) introduced a quality-based procedure model for radiation treatment (RT) funding in 2021.
• This model links reimbursement to specific patient care activities, promoting equity and transparency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the development and implementation of a new quality-based funding model for radiation treatment in Ontario.
• To establish evidence-based protocols and quality expectations for optimal RT delivery.

Main Methods:

• Over 200 radiation treatment interprofessionals (oncologists, therapists, physicists) participated in 22 expert panels.
• Development and identification of 288 evidence-based RT protocols and 672 quality expectations (QEs).
• Micro-costing of all established RT protocols was performed.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive framework for funding radiation treatment based on quality and patient care activities was established.
• Evidence-based protocols and quality expectations were defined to guide optimal RT delivery.

Conclusions:

• The new quality-based procedure model ensures equitable and transparent funding for radiation treatment in Ontario.
• Iterative review of techniques and standards of care is essential for maintaining high-quality RT for Ontarians.