Health System Factors and Patient Outcomes in Breast Cancer

Studies of patterns and correlates of treatment for breast cancer have suggested problems with the quality of care in the community.  There remains an important gap in knowledge about patient-provider communications and decision-making factors that may be associated with observed disparities in utilization and patient outcomes.  Furthermore, little is known about how delivery system structure and provider relationships vary in the oncology community practices and the association of these factors with patient experiences and outcomes. 

This project currently underway is collecting information on 1800 female patients with breast cancer and their surgeons to describe the variations reported by clinicians and patients regarding delivery system processes and coordination of care and its relationship to patient outcomes.

Research on the quality of care for patients with breast cancer remains a national priority.  Patients, advocacy groups, providers and policy makers want and need more information about the nature of women's experiences with treatment for breast cancer.  Results from this study have the potential to inform discussions of an important issue in the public debate and to improve the quality of care delivered to women with breast cancer. 

For more information on this project, please contact Center Associate Director, Nancy K. Janz at nkjanz@umich.edu. Dr. Janz is part of a multidisciplinary team working on a program of breast cancer research from the University of Michigan Medical School, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Wayne State University, and the University of Southern California. The team is directed by Dr. Steven Katz. Dr. Janz oversees the Quality of Life aspects of the grants.