Abstract
Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) digitalization and integration into clinical practice has widened its purpose, which makes it relevant to reconceptualize PRO accordingly. Therefore, this study aims to describe and critically discuss the purposes of PRO and to suggest an interdisciplinary definition of PRO aligned with current applications. The findings in this study are based on a formerly conducted scoping review on PRO and patient participation; hence, a sub-study focusing on the purpose of PRO. The purposes of PRO pertain to research and drug testing; quality and economy; patient-centered care; politicization and democratization; and organization and culture. The suggested definition describes PRO as a validated questionnaire; developed in collaboration between patients, clinicians, and other pertinent stakeholders; systematically applied; mediated digitally or paper-based; completed directly by the patient, with assistance or by a qualified proxy; composed of generic, disease-specific, condition-specific or preference-based measures; consisting of content pertaining to the patient’s physical and mental health condition, functioning, symptoms, well-being or health-related quality of life (HRQoL); providing objective and/or subjective outcomes, and individual and/or population data. An alternative understanding of PRO is meant to enhance the link between purposes and definitions of PRO, facilitating interdisciplinary stakeholder discussions on PRO, potentially improving future PRO interventions.
Highlights
Since the 1880s, Western healthcare systems have successfully and primarily focused on acute diseases, the reduction of deaths, and the treatment and prevention of such conditions [1]
A paradigm shift in healthcare is slowly evolving, which entails a shift from a heavy focus on deadly diseases and acute conditions, towards a heavier emphasis on chronic illness and patient’s health-related quality of life (HRQoL) [3]
The identified purposes of Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) presented in this article emanates from empirical material stemming from a formerly conducted scoping review regarding the link between PRO and patient participation [19]
Summary
Since the 1880s, Western healthcare systems have successfully and primarily focused on acute diseases, the reduction of deaths, and the treatment and prevention of such conditions [1]. Presently healthcare systems in Western countries are facing several challenges due to aging populations; increasing amounts of chronically ill citizens; continuous accumulation of information and data and innovations in clinical practice and technology [2]. A paradigm shift in healthcare is slowly evolving, which entails a shift from a heavy focus on deadly diseases and acute conditions, towards a heavier emphasis on chronic illness and patient’s health-related quality of life (HRQoL) [3]. A new type of patient is emerging, demanding adequate information, and active participation when managing their health [2].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
