The PROMIS Initiative: Examples of Applications in Rehabilitation

Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 2011 · DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2011.04.025 · Published: October 1, 2011

Patient Experience Rehabilitation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are essential for capturing the full impact of a disease on individuals' lives in rehabilitation. The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) aims to develop a clinically meaningful measurement system of PROs. PROMIS uses qualitative and quantitative methods to develop item banks that measure quality of life and symptoms, enhancing research and clinical practice.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Multiple samples including people with multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and arthritis

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Focus groups revealed that the most relevant aspect of pain, fatigue, and physical limitations was their interference with the ability to function.
2
Cognitive interviews identified problems with item clarity, timeframe, and response options, leading to revisions for better understanding.
3
Expert panels recommended that physical function be measured as what people with chronic conditions can accomplish using available assistive technology.

Research Summary

This article discusses the involvement of rehabilitation stakeholders in developing PROMIS, a National Institutes of Health-funded initiative for patient-reported outcomes. PROMIS uses various methods, including expert panels, focus groups, and cognitive interviews, to enhance the utility of its measures in rehabilitation settings. The developed PROMIS item banks measure quality of life and symptoms, providing potential for comparisons across domains and populations in research and clinical practice.

Practical Implications

Improved Outcome Measurement

PROMIS offers standardized, psychometrically sound instruments for measuring patient-reported outcomes in rehabilitation, enhancing the quality of research and clinical practice.

Enhanced Patient-Clinician Communication

By capturing the patient's perspective, PROMIS facilitates better communication and shared decision-making between patients and clinicians.

Tailored Interventions

The use of PROMIS allows for the development of tailored interventions based on the specific needs and experiences of individuals with chronic conditions.

Study Limitations

1
Applicability and sensitivity of generic measures to rehabilitation samples may be a concern.
2
The study sample was not specifically recruited to be representative of MS and SCI populations in general.
3
More longitudinal research is necessary to better understand predictive validity of performance-based measures as compared to PROs.

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