Introduction
There has been limited in-depth exploration of the experience of Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) for stakeholders and consumers. This study sought to understand the experiences of families of children attending burn scar and vascular clinics and treating health professionals regarding the routine use of electronic Patient Reported Outcome Measures.
Methods
Fifty qualitative interviews and observations were conducted in two outpatient clinics within a major metropolitan paediatric hospital. Routinely administered electronic Patient Reported Outcome Measures included those measuring quality of life. Data were analysed using interpretive description. The study was conducted as part of a larger hybrid effectiveness-implementation study of the routine use of electronic Patient Reported Outcome Measures.
Results
A therapeutic relationship was central to person-centred care. Three themes were identified in relation to the use of ePROMs as part of a therapeutic relationship: shaping (or not shaping) care, taking a considered approach to the use of ePROMs, and aligning values and priorities with the everyday reality. The sentiment of health professionals and families towards the use of ePROMs differed somewhat and will be discussed.
Conclusion
Electronic Patient Reported Outcome Measures should be used as a tool within a therapeutic relationship between families and health professionals. Novel methods for the future implementation and evaluation of these measures will be discussed.