Electronic Patient-Reported Outcomes in Nephrology: Focus on Hemodialysis

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Digital Health
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Hemodialysis (HD) success is traditionally measured by machine parameters.
• Patient perspective, crucial for holistic care, is often underutilized.
• Patient-Related Outcomes (PROs) and electronic PROs (ePROs) are gaining traction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on ePROs in hemodialysis.
• To advocate for the systematic integration of ePROs in HD clinical practice.
• To stimulate research addressing knowledge gaps in ePRO application for HD patients.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on the application and impact of ePROs in hemodialysis.
• Analysis of existing studies and evidence regarding ePROs' utility.
• Synthesis of findings to support the benefits of ePROs in HD.

Main Results:

• ePROs provide rapid access to patient-reported data, enabling customized care.
• Evidence suggests ePROs aid in clinical decisions concerning vascular access, dialysis parameters, anemia, mental health, fatigue, and quality of life.
• Despite scarce literature, ePROs demonstrate utility in a multidimensional approach to patient management.

Conclusions:

• ePROs offer a valuable, multidimensional tool for enhancing hemodialysis patient management.
• Systematic use of ePROs can lead to improved clinical decision-making and better healthcare quality.
• Further research and technological development are needed to fully implement ePROs in routine HD care.