Improving data flow
Exploring technical options to automate data entry.
IHDP explored whether it would be possible to automatically input Quality Performance Indicator (QPI) data (which is sourced from various IT systems) into e-CASE to prevent duplication of data entry effort and potential data error (e.g. on rekeying data) by cancer registry staff.
The feasibility study found that, for a range of reasons relating to data infrastructure and the need for expertise to interrogate and quality assure data, there was no business case to progress automation at the time. Importantly, the study confirmed that the current manual process provides high quality data.
- Learning what is not feasible means resources can be redeployed to more potentially useful areas.
- Confirming that current practice is fit for purpose avoids investing efforts in changes that would not add value.
Improving the timeliness of cancer audit data.
As referenced above, Scottish Cancer Registry staff need to access Quality Performance Indicator (QPI) data, held on the national e-CASE system, to update Registry audit records. At the time, data needed to be ‘signed-off’ by clinicians before it could be used. To enable records to be updated more quickly, Registry staff requested read-only access to the QPI data, which was developed through this project. In the new system, SCR staff can see the data they need to complete their records, and are notified when those data have been signed-off. The project was approved by all Caldicott Guardians and the e-CASE executive group.
From March 2017, SCR staff have access to e-CASE QPI staging data which means improved completeness of data records held within the Registry, and a much more efficient and timely process. Having read-only access removes the need to link large datasets in order to access the small amount of data required to complete the record.
- With an exploratory mind-set, innovation can result in simple changes to existing ways of working, which can have large benefits.
Improving cancer intelligence in the North of Scotland.
IHDP worked with NHS Grampian to improve the organisation of care for cancer patients. The North of Scotland cancer intelligence project set out to streamline the process of data management and reduce the manual efforts involved in tracking patients:
- Test and develop a system to improve patient tracking.
- Develop a business intelligence repository to store relevant data in one place.
- Develop tools to improve use of data for planning and reporting.
After 12 months of testing, it was clear that theTrakcare Referral-To-Treatment module being used in these developments was not viable for cancer tracking.
Using the knowledge gained through this exploration, effort was refocussed on developing more appropriate solutions to support pathway management.
Through IHDP support the project team were able to invest resources in exploring options and barriers, to find a workable solution:
- A reduction in the manual processes involved in patient management was achieved, making it easier for staff to do their jobs.
- Information can now be captured and shared electronically to form part of the patients’ electronic record, making it visible to help clinicians, admin staff and ultimately patients.
- More reliable intelligence is available to support service planning and improvement.
- By widening the project scope, solutions were pursued which will have benefits beyond cancer care.
In keeping with the IHDP approach, learning has been shared:
- With Health Boards.
- Regional collaborative networks have been established to continue the sharing of knowledge and expertise.
- Alignment with SCRIS.
- Learning what is not possible, and being able to flex in response, means efforts can be redeployed to areas which can add value.
- Sharing learning about what hasn’t worked prevents others from misdirecting effort.
- Aligning local developments nationally maximises the value of the effort.
- One size does not necessarily fit all - taking smaller steps rather than implementing a ‘ready-made solution’ can achieve bigger gains in the long run.
Aligning regional cancer data with SCRIS.
The recently completed South of Scotland Cancer Network (SCAN) Cancer Database Modernisation Programme created a new data architecture for the Edinburgh Cancer Centre’s regional service. IHDP supported the transition to the new system and alignment with SCRIS.
This development will lay the foundations to deliver a regional information and analysis service for SCAN that complements the national development of SCRIS.
- Aligning local developments nationally maximises the value of the effort.
Secure regional data reporting.
IHDP supported the West of Scotland Cancer Network (WoSCAN) to develop a secure supportable platform to manage routine and ad-hoc reporting of eCase data in WoSCAN.
This development aimed to:
- future proof the national cancer audit system
- ensure closer alignment with other national programmes
- support NHS Scotland strategic objectives going forward.
As previously described, the project identified a number of pain points within the current eCASE application and reporting system. Awareness of these issues will ensure that in addition to transitioning to a more robust BI (Business Intelligence) environment, this project provided the opportunity to address other system limitations, resulting in more efficient local, regional and national audit reporting processes.
The new reporting environment supports more effective data linkage and provides an opportunity for the cancer data community to streamline a number of processes within the National Cancer Quality Programme.
- Investment in discrete areas can have wider benefits locally and nationally.
- Aligning with national priorities and systems can benefit the wider data community.
Programmes of work
An overview of IHDP-led activities and learning.