ONCOLOGY AUDIT AS A STRATEGIC INSTRUMENT OF VALUE-BASED MEDICINE: CONTRIBUTIONS TO QUALITY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND HEALTHCARE IMPROVEMENT

Abstract

Oncology is one of the most complex and costly areas within healthcare systems, requiring management models capable of balancing quality of care, financial sustainability, and patient-centered approaches. This study aimed to discuss the strategic role of oncology auditing within the context of Value-Based Medicine, understanding its function beyond traditional compliance and cost-control practices. The research consisted of a narrative review of national and international literature conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE and LILACS databases, covering publications from 2009 to 2025. Descriptors related to oncology audit, quality improvement, clinical outcomes, and value-based reimbursement models were used, in addition to regulatory documents and international frameworks. The findings indicated that value-based oncology auditing contributes to the assessment of clinical outcomes, patient experience, operational efficiency, and equity of access, supporting continuous improvement in healthcare delivery and rational use of resources. However, challenges remain regarding indicator standardization, data system integration, data protection, and professional training. It is concluded that oncology auditing represents an essential instrument for sustainable governance and for strengthening value-oriented healthcare systems.