Background
Calvary mater Newcastle had been collecting and using Patient reported Measures (PRMs) in the cancer treatment centre using paper-based questionnaire. In 2024, we transitioned to the Cancer Institute NSW (CINSW) PRMs Program.
Methods/ Process
Integrating electronic PRMs into routine clinical practice required our team to work with stakeholders to develop, implement and embed a new model of care in our ambulatory cancer centre. Stakeholders included in the planning process were medical oncology consultants, nursing, allied health, administration and CINSW staff. Implementation champions were identified. Key considerations were staff roles and responsibilities, referral pathways and communication. A phased implementation commenced in June 2024 with three medical oncologists and from November, all patients are invited to complete PROs at point of care prior to each medical oncology consultation.
Results
During the first 5 months of the implementation, 506 PRMs were completed and approximately 50% of patients elected to receive self-care links associated with their identified concerns. A minority of patients (0.5%) flagged they did not have an email address to receive self-care links. Clinicians report the PRMs are helping tailor their time with the patient with minimal impact on the overall length of the consultation. Allied health staff report the revised referral criteria and pathways is helping to ensure the priority patients are able to access care.
Conclusion
A phased implementation has helped our team integrate new work processes into routine care. A whole of team approach has ensured a successful implementation, noting human resources and infrastructure to support the program have been critical. PRMs have allowed us to elevate patient centred care for the individual and the development of PRM dashboards by the CINSW will be critical to allow our service to understand the symptoms, complexity and concerns of our patient cohort and guide service development.