Electronic patient-reported outcomes as digital therapeutics for patients with cancer: a narrative review of current practices and future directions
2024

Electronic Patient-Reported Outcomes for Cancer Patients

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Yamaguchi Ken, Higashiyama Nozomi, Umemiya Maki, Inayama Yoshihide, Koike Ayami, Ueda Akihiko, Mizuno Rin, Taki Mana, Yamanoi Koji, Murakami Ryusuke, Hamanishi Junzo, Mandai Masaki

Primary Institution: Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, Kyoto University

Hypothesis

Can electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) improve communication and quality of life for cancer patients?

Conclusion

ePROs enhance patient-provider communication, education, and self-management, potentially improving treatment outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

Supporting Evidence

  • ePROs have been shown to improve communication between patients and healthcare providers.
  • Patients using ePROs reported better self-management and health outcomes.
  • Digital health technologies can reduce healthcare disparities by extending services beyond clinical settings.
  • Challenges such as adherence and economic constraints need to be addressed for effective implementation.

Takeaway

This study shows that using digital tools to let cancer patients report their symptoms can help doctors understand their needs better and improve their care.

Methodology

The review discusses the advantages and challenges of ePROs in cancer care, supported by various studies and trials.

Potential Biases

Potential biases may arise from the reliance on self-reported data and varying levels of digital literacy among patients.

Limitations

Challenges include adherence issues, increased workload for healthcare providers, and economic constraints.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1007/s10147-024-02651-8

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