Quality initiatives and the power of the database: where we stand.

Many efforts to improve the quality of care focus on information drawn from databases. Such information can be very useful; however, the acquisition and analysis of data must be undertaken with caution. Six issues related to quality of care and the acquisition and analysis of data that pose problems for thoracic surgeons are the limitations and dangers of the right to know, the inadequacy of current databases, outcomes analysis and whether they help or hurt us, increased scrutiny of our practices, practice guidelines and the standards of care, and credentialing. To maximize the benefits of databases, physicians must participate in the process of data acquisition and analysis and the formation of practice guidelines. Speaking out against the misuse of incomplete or inaccurate data and supporting Society initiatives that address these concerns will help us as we strive to maintain a strong physician-patient relationship and to deliver optimal care to our patients.