OBJECTIVES: The implementation of outcome measurement and value-based healthcare (VBHC) in lung cancer treatment is crucial for enhancing patient care and clinical effectiveness. By integrating comprehensive outcome measurement systems, oncology centers can continuously monitor and improve the quality of care, aligning treatment goals with patient needs and expectations. This study examines the implementation of these methodologies at an oncology center to optimize treatment processes and enhance the overall patient outcomes and experience.

METHODS: Multiple site visits were conducted, accumulating over 90 hours, including interviews with key staff members and all personnel, shadowing, and standardized questionnaires. The departments involved were medical oncology, nuclear medicine, and radiotherapy. Data collection emphasized roles, responsibilities, and treatment processes. VBHC methodologies were applied to measure clinical outcomes and quality of life, and Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing (TDABC) was used for optimized outcome measurement integration. The outcome measurement was structured to involve multidisciplinary teams, including medical oncologists, psychologists, and administrative personnel.

RESULTS: Detailed maps of patient treatment pathways were created to identify process durations, optimize efficiency, and implement outcome measurement. A set of health outcomes was developed and standardized questionnaires for quality-of-life indicators specific to lung cancer patients at various treatment stages were identified. Indicators included survival rates, disease progression, treatment side effects, and patient-reported outcomes on physical and emotional well-being. A financial model using TDABC was also developed to assess real labor costs associated with specific activities.

CONCLUSIONS: Implementing a structured outcome measurement framework for lung cancer patients demonstrated significant potential for improving patient care quality and operational efficiency. Multidisciplinary teams, including medical oncologists and psychologists, were crucial in measuring and analyzing clinical outcomes and quality of life indicators. The adoption of VBHC, specifically TDABC, facilitated precise cost assessments and process optimizations. These strategies support a long-term transformation towards value-based healthcare, ultimately improving care outcomes for lung cancer patients.