A DIGITAL integration strategy significantly improved coordination and data collection across multiple lung cancer screening sites, according to a new study evaluating implementation within a large U.S. health system. Researchers report that the use of an integrated framework based on electronic health record (EHR) tools has the potential to transform how low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screenings are documented, tracked, and scaled.
The study, conducted within the Jefferson Health System, focused on implementing a unified process for lung cancer screening (LCS) using Epic EHR SmartForms and the Research Electronic Data Capture application. These tools were customized to document the full continuum of care for each patient, from eligibility assessment and shared decision making to imaging and follow-up.
Since its rollout in October 2022, the framework has been adopted across 11 program sites within four regional hubs. By ensuring interoperability between systems, the program achieved a centralized data repository that improved transparency, reduced manual processes, and enhanced communication among clinical and operational teams.
The authors emphasize that standardized data collection is vital for quality care coordination and operational oversight in expanding LCS programs. Despite the availability of digital tools, many programs still lack a consistent method for tracking critical metrics. This project illustrates the potential for replicable digital models to fill that gap.
While promising, the researchers caution that successful adoption elsewhere requires careful consideration of EHR complexity, data provenance, and active stakeholder engagement. The framework is expected to support quality metric evaluation and fuel future research in early lung cancer detection.
Reference:
Alfaro MKC et al. Using an Integrated, Digital Framework to Standardize and Expand a Multisite Lung Cancer Screening Program. JCO Clin Cancer Inform. 2025;9:e2400322. [Online ahead of print]
