This thesis shows that quality of colorectal cancer care is irrevocably associated with hospital costs. Although surgical auditing is a cost and time-consuming exercise, it has a strong potential... Show moreThis thesis shows that quality of colorectal cancer care is irrevocably associated with hospital costs. Although surgical auditing is a cost and time-consuming exercise, it has a strong potential to improve outcomes in healthcare and simultaneously reduce hospital costs. Comparing hospital performances on both quality and costs makes identification of ‘best practice’ hospitals possible. Moreover, providing combined quality-cost outcomes of frail patients or operation techniques provides valuable insights where to start quality improvement initiatives. Finally, rewarding healthcare providers based on operative risk could be a first step in developing powerful reimbursement systems. This all might catalyze the continuous improvement of value leading to a more sustainable healthcare system in the future. Show less
Quality of care- and of surgical oncology in particular- is gaining momentum. In this thesis the scientific bases of minimal volume standards and quality indicators are evaluated. Also the impact... Show moreQuality of care- and of surgical oncology in particular- is gaining momentum. In this thesis the scientific bases of minimal volume standards and quality indicators are evaluated. Also the impact of centralization of pancreatic surgery is investigated as is the influence of comorbidity on patient outcomes after colorectal surgery Show less
