[Quality assurance by improved cooperation structures. The example of decentralized early detection mammography]

The German Mammography Study investigated into quality assurance measures for screening mammography, proceeding in a decentralised manner and focussing especially on structure, process and outcome of the study. The field phase lasted for three years, and during this period the technology of the equipment used in mammography improved, also to the indicators of process and of early outcome. The annual interval of examinations was well received. To include mammography into the German cancer screening programme is no easy matter: it requires a comprehensive cooperative quality assurance programme incorporating various institutions of medical care. Appropriate recommendations have been made to the Federal Committee of Physicians and Sickness Insurance Bodies.