Leveraging Outcomes Research to Optimize Prostate Cancer Care

Abstract

IntroductionTreatment of localized prostate cancer is subject to patient preference as there are multiple acceptable options with variable side effects. Patient reported outcome measures and decision aids have the potential to improve the decision process by helping patients make high quality decisions. We discuss the importance of and barriers to incorporating these tools into clinical practice. MethodsWe reviewed the literature and summarized key articles and studies of patient reported outcomes and decision aids related to the management of localized prostate cancer. ResultsMultiple high quality patient reported outcome measures that are commonly used in research are beginning to make inroads into clinical practice. We recommend using EPIC (Expanded Prostate Index Composite)-Short Form to measure and track outcomes in patients with localized prostate cancer. Decision aids improve patient knowledge and satisfaction, and decrease patient uncertainty and indecisiveness. Barriers to implementing these tools in clinical practice can be overcome by engaging providers and staff, and establishing office protocols. ConclusionsIncorporating patient reported outcome measures and decision aids into clinical practice is likely to improve the quality of decision making in patients with prostate cancer but this requires thoughtful implementation.