Tenets for Implementing Electronic Patient-Reported Outcomes for Remote Symptom Monitoring During Cancer Treatment

PURPOSE: Symptoms are common in patients receiving systemic treatment for metastatic cancer. Monitoring patients with electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) detects severe and worsening symptoms early, enabling care teams to intervene and prevent downstream complications and thereby improving outcomes. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will require patient-reported outcome (PRO) monitoring in the upcoming Enhancing Oncology Model, and many practices will likely attempt to implement PROs in patient care for the first time. METHODS: To assist practices with the design and implementation of ePRO remote symptom monitoring programs, tenets were drawn from prior ePRO program experiences and research. RESULTS: Successful implementation requires a quality improvement approach to change management with attention to software functionality, measured outcomes, personnel deployment, leadership and culture, workflow, equity, and patient engagement. Specific approaches in each of these areas can optimize program participation and effectiveness. Continuous program monitoring to identify and address barriers is essential to success. Initial challenges with personnel acceptance and patient participation are common and can be overcome by using these tenets. CONCLUSION: Remote symptom monitoring with ePROs is a key component of quality cancer care and population health management that requires organizational commitment and a deliberate approach by practices using established tenets to assure successful implementation.