Towards establishing a national colorectal cancer database: Lessons learnt from Bio21 molecular medicine informatics model

Abstract

Background: Collecting data regarding treatment and outcomes of patients with cancer, for both audit and research purposes, is a common but challenging goal. Modern technology promises greater ease and sophistication for data collection, linkage and analysis, but many traditional challenges remain. Method: Here we relate our experience of an initiative aimed at multicentre colorectal cancer data collection, that is, in collaboration with the Colorectal Surgical Society Australia and New Zealand, moving towards a national initiative. Results: Initiated from a single site in Melbourne, using a range of data collection and linkage processes, and optimizing the use of modern technology, we have ..