First of its kind: Hutchinson Center institute will study cancer outcomes and health economics

The Hutchinson Center is launching a new research institute—the first of its kind among comprehensive cancer centers nationwide—dedicated to health economics and cancer outcomes research.

The mission of the Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research and Evaluation is to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of cancer prevention, early detection and treatment to reduce the economic and human burdens of cancer.

“With the tremendous strains on patients and the health care system due to the rising costs of medical care, there is a growing awareness of the importance of health economics and outcome evaluation in our society,” said Dr. Larry Corey, president and director of the Hutchinson Center.

“While our primary mission is to prevent and cure cancers, it is also necessary to ensure that the therapies we offer patients are well selected both clinically and economically,” Corey said. “The Hutchinson Center, as one of the nation’s leading cancer research centers, should be at the forefront of this important work.”

Dr. Scott Ramsey

"Cancer care in the United States is in crisis. Costs are rising at an unsustainable rate, putting tremendous strains on patients and the health care system,” Ramsey said.

“The current environment in oncology health care delivery and policy make this an ideal time to focus on health economics, comparative and cost-effectiveness research, and health care policy,” he said, citing the 2011 President’s Cancer Panel report, which highlighted tremendous variations in cancer care nationwide.

“A patient’s race, income, insurance, where they live, and even what cancer doctor they first see can change their likelihood of receiving the best treatments and affect overall survival,” Ramsey said. “There is a tremendous need to collect, analyze and provide evidence that supports the provision of efficient, effective and cost-effective cancer care.”