The organizational context and use of routine data for cancer service management

Abstract

The authors studied the use of routinely available data by four cancer networks in England. Data use was not well developed, but beneficial structures included commitment by a full-time information officer, enthusiasm of a clinician with professed interest in multiple sources of information, and good links with external networks and clinical service groups. Policy-makers should support organizations where data are valued and integrated into performance.

Acknowledgments

This study was conducted as part of a study ‘Measures of Quality for the Improvement of Cancer Services’ funded by the UK Department of Health's National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Service Delivery and Organization programme. The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily reflect those of the NHS, the NIHR or the Department of Health.

We are grateful to Professor Susan Michie in advice on the analysis and to Marina Thomas for administrative support.