Implementation of patient-reported outcomes for people living with HIV: Insights from patients and healthcare providers in a Danish outpatient clinic

Abstract

Objectives: Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) have emerged as a valuable tool for aligning HIV care with patient needs and priorities. This study aimed to explore patient and healthcare provider (HCP) experiences of integrating a PRO solution into standard clinical care for HIV in a Danish outpatient clinic. Methods: A tailored PRO solution for people living with HIV was developed in a Danish outpatient clinic. Patients were eligible if they were aged >18 years, spoke Danish, had been on effective antiretroviral therapy for 2 years, and had no additional health issues. Patients completed an electronic questionnaire 14 days before in-clinic consultations. HCPs reviewed patients' responses before these consultations. We assessed the usability, acceptability, and relevance of the PRO solution by conducting semi-structured interviews with 24 patients (12 responders and 12 non-responders) and six HCPs. A further 95 non-responders were interviewed over the phone. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Respondents found that PROs improved patient–provider communication, treatment planning, and self-management. Non-respondents faced barriers such as health literacy, cultural beliefs, and access to technology, necessitating alternative delivery methods. HCPs found that PROs facilitated person-centred care and symptom management, but HCPs faced challenges such as insufficient training, resources, and organizational support. Conclusions: Implementing PROs in HIV care is challenging because of the patient diversity, clinician training needs, and organizational adaptations. Nevertheless, the use of PROs is associated with enhanced person-centred care. Future recommendations include tailored use of PROs, better understanding of the impact on patient groups, on-site questionnaire completion, and emphasis on shared decision-making between patients and HCPs.