Quality assurance in radiation therapy: clinical considerations

Efforts to develop a Quality Assurance Program at the Joint Center for Radiation Therapy will be described. This will include defining the clinically relevant considerations, describing acceptable goals and allowable variation, developing mechanisms for determining compliance with these goals, and educational approaches toward common understanding. Consideration toward the development of regional and national Quality Assessment Programs will also be discussed concerning auditing techniques, developing a satisfactory reporting format, and creating a worthwhile learning experience for all involved.