Collecting data
6.21 The next step is to work with the clinical professions to develop information systems to enable clinicians to use the datasets.
From 2001/ 02 funds will be made available nationally within the Information for Health programme to support audit database development for the clinical priority programmes including cancer.
6.22 In 2001/ 02 local health communities will be asked to give priority to support for collection and analysis of cancer data through Local Information Strategy (LIS) development. Local health communities will be required to provide sufficient support to ensure that complete and accurate cancer data can be collected and analysed on a timely basis. In collaboration with local cancer networks, it will be for each health community to decide what support should be supplied, building on existing provision in their area.
6.23 New initiatives to exploit the potential of information technology will facilitate the collection of cancer data.
Electronic Record Development and Implementation
Camden and Islington Health Authority and the Wirral Health Authority are currently taking part in the NHS Information Authority Electronic Record Development and Implementation Programme to develop an Electronic Health Record for cancer patients using the core cancer datasets. This will provide valuable learning and important lessons across all cancer networks.
