How do oncologists use NCCN guidelines?

Do oncology clinicians follow clinical practice guidelines? Results from a recent survey conducted by the NCCN reveal that most do follow guidelines. Let's focus on physicians (oncologists) and nurses (oncology nurses).

On June 26, 2009, the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology™ User Survey was sent to approximately 51,000 individuals who had engaged with NCCN by registering on NCCN.org or participating in NCCN educational programs. Data was collected through August 3, 2009. A total of 1,610 respondents, including 889 physicians and 199 nurses completed the survey.

Here are some interesting findings from the survey:

• Approximately 90% of physicians and 85% of nurses consulted the NCCN Guidelines at least once a month for frequently occurring cancers.
• Nurses were more than twice as likely as physicians to use the NCCN Guidelines 75% to 100% of the time when discussing treatments with patients.
• Physicians were twice as likely as nurses to use the NCCN Guidelines in their decision-making about patient care.
  

To read about the survey, click here.

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), a not-for-profit alliance of 21 of the world’s leading cancer centers, is dedicated to improving the quality and effectiveness of care provided to patients with cancer.