Patient reported outcomes in pediatric oncology practice: suggestions for future usage by parents and pediatric oncologists

Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2014 Sep;61(9):1707-10. doi: 10.1002/pbc.25034. Epub 2014 Mar 20.

Abstract

Several studies in adults have shown patient reported outcomes (PROs) to be effective in enhancing patient-physician communication and discussion of Health Related Quality of Life outcomes. Although less studied, positive results have been demonstrated in children. A PRO-intervention needs to be feasible in clinical practice to be successful. In the current study, 74 parents of children who successfully completed their cancer treatment and 21 pediatric oncologists (POs) evaluated a PRO-intervention and gave recommendations for future use in their practice. Most parents and POs suggested PROs to be an important part of standard care, starting during treatment, with an assessment frequency of every 3 months.

Keywords: monitoring; oncology; patient reported outcomes; pediatrics; quality of life.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Medical Oncology*
  • Parents / psychology*
  • Patient Care
  • Patient Outcome Assessment*
  • Physicians / psychology*
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'*
  • Prognosis
  • Quality of Life