What features do ePRO vendors offer today?
Electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePRO) allow studies to capture patient information through tablets, smartphones, or other devices. ePRO is a valuable asset, saving site staff time otherwise spent manually entering information from paper diaries, while better engaging patients and increasing compliance. While the technology may involve some up-front planning and investment, patients and sites report higher satisfaction with the tool than paper forms.
When searching for an ePRO solution, it's vital to consider the data the study needs to collect from patients. For example, will the trial track pain levels or physical activity? Is it essential to include mental health screening? Will patients bring their own devices, or should the ePRO vendor provide them?
While the study protocol doesn't need to be finalized before screening potential ePRO vendors, the more outlined, the better. It's also helpful to be aware of the different features ePRO vendors offer to incorporate them into a study if they're the right fit. Most companies offer the following features as part of their ePRO solution:
Features offered by ePRO vendors
Data capture: The central feature of ePRO technology is that it captures symptoms, pain levels, activities, and other information necessary for a trial. Some companies also offer the ability to capture photos and videos through an ePRO app.
Timestamps: A key benefit of ePRO compared to paper forms is the ability to gather timestamps on each entry includes. Timestamps improve data accuracy for clinical trials, especially those needing symptom timing, severity, and more information.
E-diaries: Patient diaries allow patients to track daily symptoms, activities, moods, and other information. E-diaries can be easier for patients to keep up with, as they're typically compatible with a patient's device and can be done when convenient.
Alarms and alerts: Today's ePRO platforms often come equipped with programmable alerts to remind patients to enter information for the study. Patients can receive text message reminders, emails, or push notifications from the device to help improve compliance.
Bring-your-own-device compatibility: Some ePRO companies provide devices for your study, but most now offer bring-your-own-device (BYOD) compatibility. There are pros and cons to both options, but allowing patients to use their devices may increase patient compliance.
Integration with other systems: Many ePRO companies offer additional systems such as Electronic Data Capture (EDC) and electronic clinical outcome assessments (eCOA). If multiple technologies are part of the same ecosystem, they're usually compatible. If there are existing systems you would like an ePRO vendor to integrate with, ask potential vendors about the specific ones they can work alongside. Saving time with data entry and avoiding data duplication is central to the value proposition of ePRO technology, so most companies are happy to work with existing systems.
When your protocol is set and you're ready to start enrolling patients in your trial, Antidote can help. Download our case studies to learn more about how we can help.
