Framework for integrating electronic patient-reported data in routine cancer care: an Oncology Intake Questionnaire

OBJECTIVE: As part of ongoing implementation of electronic patient-reported outcome tools at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, here we describe the development of the electronic New Patient Intake Questionnaire. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The original New Patient Intake Questionnaire includes a review of symptoms, oncology history, family history, health behaviors, health and social status, health literacy and numeracy, which was modified for integration into the EHR using content determination, build and configuration, implementation, analytics, and interventions. The engagement of key stakeholders, including patients, clinical staff, and providers, throughout the development and deployment of the electronic Questionnaire was crucial to producing a successful tool. Continual modifications based on input of stakeholders (such as mode of tool deployment) were made to ensure the utility and usability of the tool for both patients and providers. RESULTS: Implementation of the EHR-integrated electronic New Patient Intake Questionnaire improved collection of the PRD by increasing questionnaire accessibility for patients, while also providing all available data to clinicians and researchers. Careful consideration of the content and configuration of the questionnaire allowed for a successful, institute-wide implementation of the tool. DISCUSSION: This effort demonstrates the feasibility of implementation of a system-wide electronic questionnaire, emphasizing the importance of iterative refinement to create a tool that is both patient-centric and usable for clinicians. CONCLUSIONS: The electronic New Patient Intake Questionnaire allows for systematic collection of the PRD, which should benefit cancer care outcomes through innovative care delivery and healthcare interventions.