Osuch J R, Anthony M, Bassett L W, DeBor M, D'Orsi C, Hendrick R E, Linver M, Smith R
Department of Surgery, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824, USA.
AJR Am J Roentgenol. 1995 Jun;164(6):1329-34; discussion 1335-6. doi: 10.2214/ajr.164.6.7754870.
A national mammography database is a centralized, computerized method of data collection consisting of two possible parts: a national mammography audit and a system for monitoring and tracking patients. A national mammography audit refers to collecting and analyzing medical audit data of individual mammography practices at a national level and is a critical step in improving the interpretive component of mammography. The monitoring and tracking component refers to a centralized system that provides women and physicians with a recruitment and follow-up mechanism to optimize participation in mammography services. Both parts of a national mammography database represent important components in the improvement of mammography quality. However, unique scientific, legal, and fiscal concerns are important to consider before establishing a national mammography database.
