CADRA works with pan-Canadian and international partners on initiatives to improve patients outcomes through standardization, linkage, and use of radiation therapy data.
CADRA is raising awareness and encouraging the adoption and implementation of standardized data in radiation therapy centres across Canada. Through webinars, workshops, conferences and educational activities we share best practices, approaches and case studies that demonstrate the benefits of a harmonized approach to data collection and use.
A key part of our effort is identifying early adopter radiation therapy centers across Canada that are willing to implement American Association of Physicists in Medicine’s (AAPM) TG-263: Standardizing Nomenclatures in Radiation Oncology and CPQR’s Guidance on the Use of Common Nomenclature in Canadian Radiation Treatment Programs - guidelines crucial to the successful application of big data (BD) and artificial and intelligence (AI) principles in Canada. Through engagement, knowledge translation and outreach we offer support and training to help radiation therapy centres integrate these standards into their operations.
As our work progresses, we will keep working closely with our partners across the healthcare system, facilitate opportunities to exchange ideas, share knowledge, and make an impact.
Why standardize?
Standardizing radiation therapy data:
helps doctors get real-time feedback from patients, so they can offer consistent and better care for patients.
ensures that patients who need radiation treatment more than once, receive the same quality care based on their history, regardless of where treatment is administered.
improves emergency preparedness by allowing healthcare centers to work together and keep patient care uninterrupted more easily during crises.
facilitates information sharing and pooled data across centres and institutions to accelerate research and advancements in cancer care.
informs the development of national radiation therapy guidelines and policies based on comprehensive and consistent evidence
informs and optimizes education, training and resource allocation.