Comprehensive, near real-time national systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) data: descriptive study of implementation and applications in Scotland (UK) from 2014
Abstract
Background Chemotherapy Electronic Prescribing and Administration Systems (CEPAS) in Scotland support safe prescription and administration of systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT), with instances set up according to local processes and governance criteria in each of the five cancer centres. We sought to create a national SACT dataset (nSACTd) standardising this information, allowing population-level analysis of activity, prescribing trends, patient safety and outcomes. Materials and methods SACT data from five cancer centres, covering all hospital-prescribed SACT for adult patients in National Health Service Scotland, were brought into Public Health Scotland through a weekly data connection, resulting in separate records for every dose administered, linking to other national datasets and the latest reference information at the time of appointment using a unique personal identifier. Data feeds were adapted for regional differences in recording using national mapping tables and derivations to standardise and prepare data for analysis. Results The nSACTd contains standardised population-level information on >2.2 million SACT appointments, detailing ∼300 000 treatments in 144 000 patients, covering both solid tumours and haematological malignancies since 2014. It provides valuable, timely information being utilised for monitoring, service planning and research purposes. Initial uses highlighted the ever-increasing demand for SACT and the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on regimen routes. Conclusions The Scottish nSACTd is a globally unique, comprehensive population-based data collection of SACT information. National mapping tables and algorithms provide a robust method of bringing together separately managed CEPAS into one data platform. Many applications of the nSACTd have been undertaken, and development continues to explore full utilisation of these valuable data.