Aims
To examine the role of clinical leadership in embedding patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) into routine clinical workflows, with a focus on how leaders can address common perceived barriers including demonstrating clinical value, responding to PROM results, and integrating PROMs into time-constrained care environments.
Methods
This presentation draws on implementation science and clinical practice perspectives to explore how clinician-led initiatives influence PROM uptake. It considers practical strategies used by clinical leaders to support adoption, including modelling use in consultations, aligning PROMs with clinical decision-making, and redesigning workflows to incorporate PROM collection and review with minimal disruption.
Results
Successful implementation of PROMs is strongly influenced by clinical leadership that addresses both cultural and operational barriers. Leaders play a critical role in demonstrating the clinical impact of PROMs by linking results to improved patient communication, identification of unmet needs, and more informed care planning. They also help reframe clinician concerns about responsibility, emphasising that responding to PROMs does not require “fixing” every issue, but may involve acknowledgement, validation, or appropriate referral.
Workflow integration remains a key determinant of sustainability. Embedding PROMs through electronic pre-visit collection, automated scoring, and clear data visualisation reduces time burden and enhances usability. When PROMs are seamlessly incorporated into existing systems and routines, they are more likely to be used consistently in time-poor clinical settings.
Conclusions
Clinical leadership is essential for translating PROMs into routine practice. By addressing clinician concerns, demonstrating tangible value, and supporting efficient integration into workflow, leaders enable PROMs to become a practical and sustainable component of high-quality, patient-centred care.