Patient-reported outcomes in epilepsy: a case study exploring their usage and impact

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to obtain insights from epilepsy specialists on the use of Patient-Reported Outcome (PRO) measures and how they can affect the management of people with epilepsy and healthcare resource utilization. Methods: The heads of two referral units for people with epilepsy at one tertiary care hospital were invited to respond to a structured survey. Results: Paper-based questionnaires and face-to-face interviews were the main modalities used to measure the quality of life of people with epilepsy. The Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory-31 (QOLIE-31), the Adverse Event Profile (adult centre), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, Short-Form Health Survey 36, PSY-Flex, SAFA and Child Behavior Checklist (paediatric centre) were the most used scales. There was consensus about the favourable impact of PRO upon patient management, disease management and measurement of the success of a treatment. Both respondents considered the PRO as important as other main indicators like efficacy and tolerability of the treatment. Lack of time, personnel and economic resources was identified as a barrier on the use of PRO. The PRO could reduce the number of visits, exams and treatments, and increase the time spent on each patient and the number of neuropsychological, psychological and rehabilitation services. The standardized use of PRO was considered useful and the increase in human resources was considered a priority to achieve this goal. Conclusions: Despite the heterogeneity in the actual collection of PRO, there was a uniform perception about their role to optimize the care of people with epilepsy.