Discussion 3: Challenges and Opportunities for Quality Measures in Oncology

Dr Klein begins the panel discussion by asking participants to name one of their biggest challenges. Dr Newcomer responds that time and the fact that there are “not enough†PhDs are challenging. Ms Torda suggests that standardized data and data collection remains difficult. Dr Scanlon says it's the “nimbleness†of structuring data.

The 3 panelists relate their perspectives on other challenges with data management, including the fact that many hospitals and providers are reluctant to risk losing accreditation from the NCQA if they reveal “bad data.†Dr Newcomer argues that these gaps in care present opportunity to improve quality of care.

The panelists also discuss how health information technology, such as electronic health records, might address challenges providers face such as time.

“When you can combine that registry information with the claims data, it's powerful; a lot of questions can be answered. I think what would be nice to sort of further overlay on that is some information from patients,†Dr Scanlon succinctly adds. “Thinking about how to merge that in–and if that resides and where it resides is difficult, admittedly–but I think important to think about for the future.”