Integrated networks of doctors, patients, and hospitals are a major piece of cancer governance. They enable stakeholders to pool information and resources and achieve systematic learning. Two groups, the Children’s Oncology Group in the United States and the Europe Against Cancer initiative, are examples of network governance. Both demonstrate learning processes, production and dissemination of new data, financial support, and engagement of all stakeholders. Why have these integrated networks been successful while so many others have failed? Because both are embedded within regulatory frameworks that ensure that the networks work properly. Integrated networks are vulnerable when the frameworks fail to provide the necessary resources, accountability, fairness, and participation.
