Exploring the integration of patient-reported outcome measures in clinical practice: A cross-sectional survey of EORTC healthcare professionals
Journal Title
European Journal of Cancer
Publication Type
Research article
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Using patient reported-outcome measures (PROMs) in routine care has significant potential to benefit patients with cancer, but it is unclear how widely they are used in practice. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional survey (November 2023-April 2024) among healthcare professionals (HCPs) in the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC). Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests assessed PROM use patterns, regional differences, and barriers. Binary regression models compared barriers between PROM users and non-users. RESULTS: Of the 3733 EORTC members contacted, 784 responded (21 % response rate), predominantly physicians. Among the 784 HCPs (50 % women), 338 (43 %) did not use PROMs, 214 (27 %) were occasional users, and 232 (30 %) used PROMs regularly. PROM use was significantly higher in Western Europe than in Central/Eastern Europe. PROMs were primarily used for monitoring health status and enhancing communication. PROM use was highest among HCPs treating bone, soft tissue, genito-urinary, and gynecological cancers, and lowest in lung cancer. Key barriers to PROM use included lack of time (reported by 70 % of respondents) and insufficient support on how to use PROMs (73 %). Compared to non-users, PROM users more frequently identified patient-level barriers, such as accessibility concerns, as relevant (Odds Ratio 3.5, 95 % Confidence Interval 2.4-5.3). CONCLUSIONS: PROM use varies by cancer type, setting, and region. Addressing time constraints, providing support, and overcoming patient barriers are key to broader integration. Ensuring equitable access to PROM tools across regions and settings is vital for promoting equity in cancer care.
Keywords
Cancer; Clinical practice; Electronic data collection; Electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO); Patient reported outcome measures; Supportive care
Department(s)
Medical Oncology; Health Services Research
Open Access at Publisher's Site
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejca.2025.115333
Terms of Use/Rights Notice
Refer to copyright notice on published article.


Creation Date: 2025-04-08 06:06:14
Last Modified: 2025-04-08 06:21:00

© 2025 The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research. Access to this website is subject to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

An error has occurred. This application may no longer respond until reloaded. Reload 🗙