Background Patient-reported Outcome (PRO) measures may be used as the basis for out-patient follow-up. Instead of fixed appointments, patients attend follow-up based on disease-specific questionnaires filled in at home (telePRO). The questionnaire is handled in real time by a disease-specific algorithm, which assigns an outcome color reflecting clinical need. Questionnaires and algorithms are constructed in a consensus process with clinicians. We aimed to describe AmbuFlex’ telePRO solutions and the algorithm outcomes and variation, to discuss differences between patient groups, and to highlight possible applications and challenges.
Methods TelePRO solutions with more than 100 processed questionnaires were included in the analysis. Data were retrieved together with data from national registers.
Results From 2011 to 2021, 29 disease-specific telePRO solutions were implemented within 24 different ICD-10 groups. A total of 42,015 patients were referred and answered 171,268 questionnaires. An existing disease-specific instrument with cut-off values was available for four solutions, whereas items were selected or developed ad hoc for the other solutions. Mean age ranged from 10.7 years to 73.3 years. Mortality varied between 0 and 528 per 1000 patient years. Variations in algorithm outcomes reflected differences in patient groups and aims while different solutions within the same patient group varied little.
Discussion TelePRO can be applied in diseases where PRO can be used to evaluate clinical status and needs. Questionnaires and algorithms should be adapted for the specific patient groups and clinical aims.