Unlocking the potential of patient-reported outcomes: practical uses in routine oncology care

A growing body of evidence supports the use of remote symptom monitoring based on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce inpatient hospitalizations and emergency department visits. Health systems, payers, and specialty societies support the collection of PROs. Oncology practices are integrating PROs into their electronic health records to monitor and manage patients' health status and symptoms. Despite a growing evidence base and enthusiasm for the use of PROs, collection in routine oncology practice remains limited, with persistent gaps in our understanding of the value of PRO collection and practical methods of implementation. Ongoing research seeks to define methods to overcome these barriers and gaps. This review summarizes the practical uses and potential benefits of PROs in routine oncology care, discusses continued knowledge gaps, and highlights recent examples of successful implementation.