Aim
To evaluate a statewide clinician knowledge forum designed to translate linked cancer data into shared insights and quality improvement priorities for bladder cancer care in New South Wales (NSW).
Methods
As part of the Cancer Institute NSW Reporting Better Cancer Outcomes (RBCO) Program, the NSW Cancer Data Ecosystem was used to generate a comprehensive picture of bladder cancer incidence, outcomes, treatment patterns, equity and patient experience. Linked population, clinical, treatment and patient-reported datasets were analysed and findings reviewed by a multidisciplinary clinical advisory group comprising medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgery and nursing representatives. Findings were presented through an RBCO Knowledge Forum, where clinicians interpreted the data, discussed implications for practice and co-designed potential quality improvement actions.
Results
Seventeen clinicians from multiple disciplines and health services participated in the March 2026 forum. Data highlighted stagnant survival outcomes, variation in treatment patterns and access to care, and significant inequities in bladder cancer outcomes. The most disadvantaged 40% of the NSW population accounted for approximately half of bladder cancer diagnoses and more than half of bladder cancer deaths, while women from disadvantaged communities appeared more likely to present with advanced disease. Participants also identified variation in cystectomy volumes across facilities and opportunities to strengthen multidisciplinary decision-making and specialist service delivery. Following discussion and prioritisation, key improvement actions included mandatory multidisciplinary team review for suspected or confirmed muscle-invasive bladder cancer, increased awareness of haematuria as a potential cancer symptom, and support for consolidation of cystectomy services into higher-volume centres.
Conclusion
The RBCO Knowledge Forum demonstrated how linked statewide cancer data can be translated into clinician-led quality improvement priorities. By combining analytics, expert interpretation and structured consensus-building, this model supports a learning health system approach to improving the quality, equity and coordination of cancer care across NSW.