A quality improvement initiative to build the evidence base of cancer data for the Grampians region led GICS to create a comprehensive MDM database in 2010. The GICS MDM database is one of the cornerstones for monitoring to assist implementation of the Victorian Integrated Cancer Services Strategic Goal number 3 (2008) – “systemically monitor processes and outcomes of care to improve system-wide performance”.
GICS commissioned the University of Ballarat’s Health Informatics Laboratory(1) to identify a business product that would fulfill its needs for both a database and MDM management process. A collaborative approach was adopted with the software developer, aiming to implement elements of the management system as quickly as possible to reduce the manual labour associated with managing MDMs. This iterative process required clear consensus on methodology, and while attempting to incorporate a range of working practices, an acknowledgement that a best fit outcome is desirable.
Navigating the intricacies of cancer diagnosis and behaviour requires committed guidance from medical practitioners of many specialties to formulate the database elements. Gaining enthusiastic support from this group is vital to sustain the length of the project and ensure widespread adoption.. The database must enable analysis of cancer statistics including comparison of treatments and outcomes. Site specific dependant fields require data entry that will allow the retrieval of targeted cancer behaviour identifiers. A robust database will support current and future requirements, both for MDM management and potentially for comprehensive cancer analysis beyond MDM dictates.
Further development will incorporate follow-up data details of treatment delivered, and variation if any, from recommended plans. GICS are exploring avenues to support use of the database beyond MDMs for cancer analysis.
GICS expects the lessons learned will also be of value in the creation and implementation of a region wide solution for MDM management throughout Victoria.