JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background Using an electronic Patient Reported Outcomes (ePRO) platform to conduct symptom management follow-up in outpatients with advanced cancer could be a novel and potentially effective way. However, empirical evidence describing detailed preparation and implementation course in a real study is needed. Objective The purpose of this paper was to describe the implementation process and evaluations, to share our experience and the problems we encountered during the process of implementation, the solutions we found to solve those problems. Implementation The design and function of ePRO- Doctor client and Patient client, the PRO scales used in the study and the strategies to promote symptom tracking were described. Moreover, the training and evaluation for research assistants were presented. Evaluation Using the ePRO platform to do symptom management follow-ups in advanced cancer patients showed high completion rate (86.3%- 72.7%) and low drop-off rate (23.6%). The ePRO platform sent 293 alert notification to both patients and doctors, which promoted the patient security. The short and sharp PRO tools selection, user-friendly interface, automatically reminding notification and alert, and multiple dimensional training are essential components for preparation and implementation of ePRO system. Conclusion: Using the ePRO platform to do symptom management follow-ups in advanced cancer patients is time-saving, energy-saving and effective. The PRO tools selection, platform design and training of research assistants are important aspects for implementation.