A Web-based database system for conducting outcomes research via the Internet: the National Comprehensive Cancer Network system

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is an alliance of 16 of the world's leading cancer centers, formed to help ensure the highest quality cancer care. City of Hope National Medical Center serves as the data-coordinating center (DCC) for the first NCCN shared outcomes research project. A Web-based database system has been designed and implemented over the Internet. Cancer centers located all over the United States are submitting data to this system that accommodates varying levels of database expertise and capabilities. The application is browser independent and incorporates several unique design, confidentiality, and security features, such as the use of "ghost buttons" and a "secret agent" approach to security. New SQL and Web-enabled features in the SAS statistical software package are integrated into this system as well. A demonstration of the NCCN database system is presented.