8. PRO-based clinical communication

Introducing PROMs

It is essential that the patient is well informed about the process of PRO assessment.

Explain

  • why PROs are important
  • what will be done with the information afterwards
  • what exactly you would ask the patient to do (depending on the setting of the assessment).

Suggestions on how to start a conversation:

Note: If you use electronic PRO assessment:

  • include information about data protection (e.g. within the clinic information system)
  • if there is no constant alert for clinicians in case of suspicious replies, include a disclaimer clarifying that answers and the symptoms cannot be looked at immediately. Therefore, acute symptoms must be communicated directly to the health care team in addition to the questionnaire.