5. Modes of PRO assessment for clinical application

Summary

PROs can be assessed via paper-pencil, electronically, or interview-based. 

  • Paper-pencil assessment is the simplest approach but limited in usability and in the processing, scoring, and/or display of PRO data. 
  • Electronic assessment enables efficient, versatile PRO data use through automation (e.g. PROM allocation, score calculation, graphical display, reminder) but is more complex to implement, requiring IT infrastructure, specific software, and suitable devices. 
  • Interview-based PRO assessment, done in-person or remotely, offers immediate support but is labor-intensive and susceptible to interviewer influence.