Automating collection of patient-reported outcome measures in a high-volume tertiary wound care centre.

Abstract

Wound care centres offer opportunities to assess and compare treatment strategies and experiences across different sites through clinical research, with the ultimate goal of optimising patient care. However, recruitment of eligible participants is critical to successful and timely study completion. In this article, the authors describe the implementation of a patient-initiated approach to patient-reported outcome measure research in hard-to-heal (chronic) lower extremity wounds. The approach uses quick-response (QR) codes and automated patient identification. This process enables recruitment of patients without the need for in-person research personnel, results in minimal disruptions to clinic workflow, and captures an important dimension of wound care during under-used time in patient waiting rooms.