Quality Research in Radiation Oncology (Q-RRO)
Q-RRO, in operation since 1973 as Patterns of Care Study (PCS), seeks to improve the quality of care received by cancer patients by conducting national surveys of radiation therapy delivery. This unique quality initiative has had a major positive impact on current practice and has kept pace with dramatic alterations in the radiation oncology structural base and clinical processes. Results have assertively influenced continuing workup and treatment in radiation oncology and have been integral to progressive development of the highest standard of radiation oncology care in the world. In recent years technological capabilities for delivering both external beam radiotherapy and high- as well as low-dose rate brachytherapy have advanced rapidly and have entered the national practice. Detailed evaluation of the use of these technologies by all types of practice is crucial to continuing improvement in patient care. Based on a core set of quality indicators for selected cancers associated with high incidences and mortality, Q-RRO is conducting a statistically well-designed set of surveys to collect data on those measures. For the nation and by practice setting, treatment technology, patient and disease factors, it will document compliance with quality indicators, as well as evaluate the penetration of results of recent positive clinical trials and of peer-reviewed, evidence-based, practice standards and guidelines. For more information visit
www.qrro.org.