The collection of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) is constantly improving, driven by a desire to provide patient-centered care and use PROs to measure care satisfaction. This abstract outlines strategies to increase PROs collection among prostate cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment within the Michigan Radiation Oncology Quality Consortium (MROQC) using the Plan-Do-Check-Act Cycle. Our success is underscored by the increase in PROs completion rates from 32% during the pilot phase to the current 74%. This achievement is credited to diversified data collection methods, continuous data review, and prompt incorporation of adjustments to improve patient reporting on their health and care experiences.
Problem: Increase the rate of prostate cancer patients completing a survey at the start of their treatment to 60%. During the pilot phase, completion rates were at 32%, falling short of the desired goal.
Measurement: Patient treatment experiences, side effects, and QOL were evaluated via email and paper surveys distributed during appointments or by mail. Responses, collected into a dataset for analysis, required at least one question answered for inclusion. Data was visualized using line and bar graphs, with improvement driven by the PDCA cycle.
Analysis: Patients receiving radiation for prostate cancer completed surveys at treatment onset and conclusion. Initially, 25% of MROQC facilities collected data, refining methods through monthly meetings. After the pilot, all facilities completed data collection with continuous evaluation. Completion rates for monthly surveys were monitored and stratified by facility and consortium-wide averages.
Implementation: The project employed a standardized data collection method involving prostate cancer patients. Challenges included patient reluctance, inconsistent data collection, technical issues, and staff resistance. Solutions included refined patient communication, flexibility in data collection, prompt tech support, staff training, and knowledge-sharing. This offers insights for improving PROs’ data collection efficiency.
Results/Discussion: In 2023, the Consortium achieved a 74% baseline completion rate, attributing our success to PDCA cycle integration. To sustain our success, we diligently monitor completion rates and collect feedback monthly. Flexible data collection fosters site innovation, enhancing patient participation. An adaptive approach ensures responsiveness to evolving needs, optimizing long-term success.
