How to implement routine electronic patient-reported outcome monitoring in oncology rehabilitation

Background: Implemenation of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) like quality of life can add the patient's perspective to traditional clinical outcomes of cancer rehabilitation in a structured and standardized way. Aim: To present useful steps for a successful implementation of routine electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePRO) monitoring. The presented steps are exemplified by describing the procedure applied in an Austrian inpatient cancer rehabilitation centre. Methods The suggested implementation steps are presented based on the structure of the replicating effective programmes framework, which was used for developing a pragmatic implementation strategy. Results: We scheduled alternating trainings and process evaluations for audit and enhancement of procedures. In this way, the ePRO participation rates could be improved. Stakeholder involvement led to initiatives that included the integration of ePRO data into the medical discharge letter and the implementation of follow-up assessments. Discussion: Tailored changes in assessment procedures enabled the successful implementation of ePRO, which has been shown to be feasible before and after cancer rehabilitation. The continuous involvement of stakeholders paved the way for further projects initiated by medical staff as users themselves (inclusion of PRO data in the discharge letter and a comprehensive ePRO follow-up using a versatile online patient portal).