Evaluating an electronic patient-reported outcome monitoring system in patients with prostate cancer in routine clinical care: a prospective observational study.

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and clinical utility of an electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) system for patients undergoing radiation therapy (RT) for prostate cancer in routine clinical practice.

METHODS

A prospective observational study was conducted at the Medical University of Innsbruck among patients receiving RT for primary or recurrent prostate cancer. The ePRO system was designed to capture patient-reported symptoms and health-related quality of life throughout treatment and follow-up, aiming to standardize symptom monitoring and improve continuity of care. Patients completed questionnaires at baseline, during treatment, and in follow-up with feasibility defined as ≥ 75% of patients completing at least 75% of scheduled assessments. Patients' acceptability was evaluated at baseline and at treatment end using self-developed questionnaires. Healthcare professionals' (HCPs) perception of clinical utility of the system was measured with a self-developed questionnaire.

RESULTS

Forty patients participated in the study with a median age of 71 years. The ePRO system was feasible, with an average completion rate of 87%, exceeding the feasibility threshold. Patient acceptability was high, with 98% (39/40) expressing willingness to use it regularly. HCPs' feedback was also positive, with all HCPs (100%, 8/8) reporting usefulness of the system in clinical care and 83% reporting that the system helped them in the clinical assessment of their patients.

CONCLUSION

The ePRO monitoring system was feasible and well-accepted among both patients and HCPs, demonstrating potential for continued use in routine clinical care. Further efforts are needed to optimize clinical integration and address barriers to ensure equitable access.