The Digital Evolution in Clinical Guidelines and Quality Measurement (Concurrent Session)-ASTRO’S DATA INITIATIVES-Lessons Learned

Pdf Summary

Astro's Data Initiatives, led by Randi Kudner, the Assistant Director of Quality Improvement, focuses on leveraging data to improve cancer care and outcomes. Astro is part of the mCODE (minimal Common Oncology Data Elements) Executive Committee and has joined CodeX, aiming to align with and build on FHIR-based rule implementation.<br /><br />The initiatives have seen success through pilots and vendor adoption, with a growing community of stakeholders working on use case pilots to demonstrate the feasibility and value of leveraging data in oncology. The initiatives aim to benefit patients, providers, regulatory bodies, vendors, and payers.<br /><br />One of the key areas of focus is radiation therapy (RT) treatment data sharing. Astro has successfully implemented mCODE RT profiles and an RT Implementation Guide, facilitating the exchange of RT treatment information. They have also added SNOMED CT codes related to RT to the Global Patient Set.<br /><br />Another area of focus is automating prior authorization processes, aiming to streamline the process and reduce manual checks. Astro has demonstrated proof of concept for breast and colorectal cancer prior authorization and is working on a real-world test to streamline prior authorization for prostate cancer radiation therapy.<br /><br />The initiatives also focus on quality measures for cancer care. Astro has garnered support from professional societies, payors, and quality care management IT companies. They have authored and tested proof-of-concept measures using mCODE, FHIR, and the Quality Measures Implementation Guide.<br /><br />Astro's efforts have resulted in increased adoption of mCODE nationally and internationally, with many radiation therapy sites and vendors implementing mCODE. The initiatives have also gained recognition from CMS, with mCODE being named as the data submission option for the Enhancing Oncology Model.<br /><br />Astro is actively seeking involvement from stakeholders who are interested in leveraging data to improve cancer care. They encourage interested parties to reach out and participate in their initiatives.

Asset Caption

Randi Kudner, MFA
Assistant Director of Quality Improvement

Keywords

Astro's Data Initiatives

leveraging data

improve cancer care

mCODE Executive Committee

RT treatment data sharing

automating prior authorization

quality measures

increased adoption

radiation therapy sites

stakeholders involvement