Symptom monitoring with electronic patient-reported outcomes during cancer treatment: final results of the PRO-TECT cluster-randomized trial

This paper reports the results of a large, multicenter trial evaluating whether using electronic patient-reported outcomes (PROs) to monitor symptoms during cancer treatment improves patient care. Conducted in 52 U.S. oncology practices with over 1,100 patients with metastatic cancer, the study found that while PRO monitoring did not improve overall survival, it significantly reduced emergency visits and delayed deterioration in physical function, symptom control, and quality of life. Patients found the system easy to use, felt more in control of their care, and would recommend it to others. These findings support integrating PRO symptom monitoring into routine cancer care to enhance patient outcomes and experiences.