Abstract
Introduction: The National LUCADA dataset standard for achieving histological confirmation is 75%. Following the 2013 LUCADA audit, our DGH fell below this standard with a score of 65.6%. We wanted to understand the reasons why histological confirmation was not achieved and to identify any discrepancies in the data recorded on the SOMERSET database.
Method: Retrospective analysis of all diagnosed patients on the 2013 LUCADA database was carried out. There were inaccuracies noted in the recorded SOMERSET data that identified 35 (46%) patients with no histological confirmation. Following data correction a total of 30 (39%) patients were included in the audit as having no histological confirmation.
Results: Our results are shown in Table 1 below: .
Conclusion: The LUCADA dataset provides a measurable standard for lung cancer care. We fell below this standard in the 2013 audit, however clear reasons for not meeting this standard have been identified. 19 (25%) of patients either declined or were unfit for further diagnostic tests. A review of the 12 (15.8%) patients deemed unfit for investigations proved that this was due to late presentation or poor performance status. We are undertaking a programme of work with primary care to increase the number of patients whose symptoms are spotted and investigated earlier which will help to improve patient outcomes.
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