Evidence-based guidelines, standards and reports help health professionals and organizations improve care and make the best possible decisions together with their patients.

While the vast majority of guidelines are related to treatment, there have been significant advances in the breadth and diversity of guideline coverage. For example, in 2008, the number of guidelines related to palliative care and end-of-life care increased by 42%. Efforts to fill in the gaps and to ensure broad coverage will continue to be a priority.

The proportion of patients being treated according to guidelines continues to increase. Use of the latest technologies such as Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) is also increasing. However, fewer patients are participating in clinical trials.

Understanding how and why treatment practices vary helps to improve quality of care and associated outcomes.

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