Topic 4: Future Directions & Emerging Technologies-IASLC Quality Indicators Project

Pdf Summary

The IASLC Lung Cancer Screening Quality Indicators Delphi Study, led by Professor Martin Tammemägi, aims to enhance the quality of lung cancer screening programs by developing a comprehensive set of quality indicators (QIs). The study addresses the gap in existing guidelines, which are limited in scope and geographical applicability, particularly in the lung cancer screening (LCS) pathway.<br /><br />To achieve this, a Delphi process was utilized, which is a structured method to build consensus among experts. The study involved multiple rounds of surveys and discussions to determine which indicators are essential or desirable for effective lung cancer screening. This method allowed for unbiased input and fostered agreement on the most critical QIs.<br /><br />The outcome of the study is a list of 26 QIs, divided into essential (20) and desirable (6), spanning 10 out of 11 lung cancer screening domain categories. Essential indicators include metrics such as the percentage of eligible individuals screened, the rate of cancer detection, and adherence to recommended follow-up procedures. Desirable indicators focus on aspects like 30-day mortality following invasive procedures and race, sex, and socio-economic disparities in access and care.<br /><br />Despite these achievements, the study acknowledges its limitations, such as missing important QIs like specificity, and urges institutions to adapt these indicators locally. It intentionally did not set specific thresholds for QIs, anticipating that future data collection will inform standardized expectations.<br /><br />Ultimately, these recommended QIs are expected to drive quality improvements in lung cancer screening programs globally, providing a solid foundation for ongoing evaluation, monitoring, and enhancement of practices in the field. The consensus reached by the IASLC Early Detection & Screening Working Group represents a significant step forward in the standardized assessment of lung cancer screening efficiency and effectiveness.

Asset Subtitle

Martin Tammemagi

Keywords

IASLC

Lung Cancer Screening

Quality Indicators

Delphi Study

Martin Tammemägi

Consensus Building

Screening Programs

Essential Indicators

Desirable Indicators

Global Standards