Four major studies were highlighted in today's presscast:
- Study finds that most preventive double mastectomies occur in women who are at very low risk for contralateral breast cancer: Analysis of two new patient surveys found that two thirds of women with early-stage breast cancer who underwent contralateral prophylactic mastectomy were not at elevated risk for cancer in the contralateral breast; researchers found that women who opted for preventive double mastectomy had a high degree of worry about recurrence.
- A multidisciplinary team approach to end-of-life care communications leads to reduced use of intensive care among patients with advanced cancer: Researchers found that consultation from a multidisciplinary team increased the election of palliative care and decreased use of more intensive care measures (e.g., long-term ventilation and ICU support) among patients with advanced cancer hospitalized at a comprehensive cancer center over a four year period.
- ASCO's quality evaluation program documents significant improvement in adherence to quality standards: An analysis of self-reported data from 156 oncology practices participating in ASCO's Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI®) showed that - over a four year period - adherence to many quality care standards markedly improved, especially those involving new standard practices (e.g., genetic testing for tumor mutations, use of new anti-nausea drugs, etc.).
- A real-time electronic performance tracking system improves adherence to quality care standards for breast and colon cancers: A large study found that use of a quality reporting system developed by the American College of Surgeons was associated with improved adherence to certain quality standards at 64 cancer centers over a four-year period. The electronic performance tracking system evaluated in this study is the first to provide real-time feedback.
This year's Quality Care Symposium will include more than 330 abstracts covering topics, such as reducing overuse of tests and procedures, improving patient-physician communication, effectively measuring quality of care, and applying advanced health information technology to improve the quality and value of care.