Jeffrey Limmer, Abstract Co-Author: Employee, McKesson Corporation

Dawn Henrich, Presenter: Employee, iCAD, Inc Stockholder, iCAD, Inc

Purpose:Introduce a vendor agnostic cloud-based platform in a large multi-site Oncology network. The solution allows for the capture of empirical data, in aggregate, across multiple sites for the purpose of process standardization and metrics reporting as a pathway for accreditation readiness. The foundation is built on a proven infrastructure already used in Oncology environments.Methods:There are many elements utilized to determine quality metrics including equipment, treatment techniques, staffing, plan of care, etc. These elements in conjunction with daily site operations and clinical services generate a set of evaluation elements reviewed periodically.The current methodology within many Oncology networks is a somewhat standardized albeit disparate approach to evaluate the quality of Oncology programs.The most common approach in evaluating Oncology programs remains through a peer review process performed by colleagues at different sites. The end result varies significantly due to the non-standard documentation and subjective interpretation of evaluation elements by the reviewer. Each reviewer has a unique style of formalizing the end-points in a final executive summary when transferring an action plan of major or minor recommendations uncovered during the peer review process.The final evaluations are housed in disparate systems located within numerous documents (Excel or Word) vs. a global data repository. This disconnect creates variations in reporting, operational processes, timelines and administrative response to reviewer recommendations.Results: 1.Tactical results: a.Predefined reviewer data elements vs. ‘off the cuff’ data elements.b.Manage site profile data elements including staffing and equipment lists.c.Quick information look-up from any place with an internet connection.d.Increased administrative control of quality data elements.e.Standardized reporting.f.Greater transparency of site profile (staffing, equipment, treatments, etc...)g.Increased granularity of data elements for future reporting requests.h.Minimize subjective content while allowing a reviewer the ability to record free text comments that might be used to qualify major/minor recommendations.2.Strategic result:a.Increase in quality patient care.b.Increase in transparency to accreditation readiness in a large network.Conclusion: This platform is a viable solution to resolve the disparate issues that have inundated the compliance peer review issues of the past. Technology combined with strategic vision will change the future of compliance peer review to administer standardization and gauge accreditation readiness throughout an entire network to raise the level of patient care.

Limmer, J, Henrich, D, A Forward Approach for Data Aggregation and Collection to Improve Quality of Peer Review Using a Cloud Based Platform within a Large Oncology Network.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14043749.html