Educating Your Patients on Patient-Reported Outcomes
So, you have OutcomeMD all set up, your team informed, and roles assigned. The next step is action!
But, how can you ensure your patients are as invested as you and your team are in Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs)? It begins with sharing key information.
After all, patients need a few answers:
- What's a Patient-Reported Outcome (PRO)?
- A PRO is a health result reported by the patient, like quality of life or symptoms, often measured through a survey or questionnaire. An ePRO Measure (ePROM) is an electronic version of this survey.
- Why should patients complete it?
- ePROMs engage patients in their care and offer providers valuable insights on progress. Think of it like taking blood pressure or a blood sugar finger prick test – it informs both patient and provider about the patient's condition!
- How does it benefit patients?
- ePROMs foster shared decision-making and let patients track progress on their terms, enhancing patient-centric care.
- Where do patients complete ePROMs?
- Like personalized learning, medical care varies. Tailor your approach to your patient's needs.
To drive progress, consider these techniques rooted in adult learning theory:
- Engage their curiosity: Explain why ePROMs matter and how they aid care. Encourage them to use it to discuss concerns with their provider.
- Hands-on approach: Send ePROMs before or during visits, guiding them through the process.
- Self-directed learning: Some patients will grasp the importance themselves, needing minimal guidance.
Remember these tips when sending ePROMs:
- Set clear goals: Align patient expectations with timely completion of ePROMs. Explain how their input shapes their care.
- Hold them responsible: Encourage commitment to completing ePROMs before visits. Highlight how this data fuels thoughtful treatment decisions.