Benefits, Challenges, and Opportunities of Integrating Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Geriatric Oncology to Advance Patient Screening for Functional Fitness for Treatment

Abstract

Objectives: To discuss potential benefits, challenges, and opportunities of integrating patient-reported outcome measures in geriatric oncology, with the goal being to advance patient screening for 'functional fitness for treatment.'

Data sources: This is narrative review of the relevant literature using PubMed.

Conclusion: Patient screening in geriatric cancer care can be driven by patient self-reports. Most of the research on patient-reported outcome measures in cancer care to date has involved, in different proportions and to different extents, older patients with cancer (≥70 years of age). However, reports specifically targeting implementation of patient-reported outcome measures in geriatric cancer care are surprisingly fewer. The International Society of Geriatric Oncology Priorities Initiative calls for more research into the use of patient-reported outcome measures for older adults with cancer. More feasibility studies will be required to evaluate patient-reported outcome measures as fit-for-purpose, reporting frequency, patient burden, integration and display of patient-reported information, and workflow impact. Developing, adapting, and validating patient-reported outcome measures for use in geriatric oncology will be key to ensure adequacy of measurement. Groundwork involving consultation of all potential end users of patient-reported information is paramount because there is no one size fits all. When the ground is ready for implementation adequate preparation, training, resources, and ongoing support will be needed.

Implications for nursing practice: Working within the multidisciplinary team, nurses can promote patient screening that is led by the patient. Nursing roles can be developed, supported, expanded, or repurposed to involve greater use of patient-reported outcome measures for several key patient outcomes in geriatric cancer care.

Keywords: Cancer; Geriatric oncology; Patient-led care; Patient-reported outcome measures.