A case study of a patient with MS followed for 15 years using patient-reported outcome measures

Patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments have grown in popularity because they provide unique information to help evaluate healthcare services from the patient’s perspective. The objective of this case study is to present the utility of both qualitative and quantitative self-reported data collected over time in describing disease progression, managing treatment, and assessing quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). A 62-year-old female with relapsing-remitting MS was followed longitudinally for 15 years by the same neurologist and physiatrist who used magnetic resonance images to monitor her lesions and the neurologist-administered EDSS instrument to monitor her disability. Concurrently, the patient kept track of her symptoms, feelings, moods, treatments, side effects and outcomes of care through diaries and used the comprehensive LIFEwareSM System self-reported, symptom-oriented questionnaires (assessments) to track her functional health status and quality of life. Medical records, EDSS scores, LIFEware® self-reported measures along with diary entries for the period were reviewed. Self-reported data, as well as clinician assessed data, are both key to comprehensively treating a patient with MS. By incorporating PRO measures into practice, a physician can address significant self-reported symptoms, minimize limitations, maintain function, enhance quality of life and provide more holistic disease management treatment.