360 Health Analysis (H360) – A Proposal for an Integrated Vision of Breast Cancer in Portugal

Abstract

deriving a snapshot from the medical interpretation of evidence-based data to patient perspective on the quality and effectiveness of medical care provided.This article reviews evidence on breast cancer clinical practice and quality of care and disease management in Portugal. A review of evidence on breast cancerclinical practice and quality of care over the last 10 years was performed in PubMed using the query “Organization and Administration"[Mesh] AND "breastcancer"[All Fields] NOT “Review” [ptyp]. National cancer initiatives relevant for quality of care and national and international guidelines and consensuswere analyzed. Retrieved results showed that breast cancer incidence is still increasing, including in Portugal. Studies investigating disease outcomes seek toderive improvements to clinical practice and better financial resource allocation. Setting performance measures (KPIs) in institutions treating cancer is not areality in Portugal yet, but has potential to leverage the quality of clinical performance. A multidisciplinary approach within one health structure is also desirable. More investment in clinical (including academic) research is key to optimize the quality of care. Implementation of clinical practice guidelines (largelybased on ESMO guidelines in Portugal) is crucial to improve patient outcomes. Not less importantly, quality of life is a treatment goal on its own in breastcancer care. Breast cancer remains a health challenge and a multidimensional, 360-degree appraisal, beyond the exclusively clinical perspective, may providenew insights towards an optimal patient-centered approach.