Patient-Reported Outcomes Dashboard for Inflammatory Arthritis

This trial tests whether a new dashboard tool improves communication and decision-making between patients and doctors during rheumatology visits. The Patient-Reported Outcomes Dashboard With Goal Setting displays patient-reported symptoms and personal treatment goals for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis. Researchers aim to determine if the dashboard helps patients feel more involved in their care and achieve their health goals more effectively than with usual care. Participants should have rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, receive care at a Northwestern Medicine rheumatology clinic, and be able to complete online questionnaires. As an unphased trial, this study offers patients the opportunity to actively participate in research that could enhance their healthcare experience.

Research has shown that a patient-reported outcomes (PRO) dashboard in rheumatology clinics is safe and easy for patients to use. In a study with over 6,000 patients, these dashboards, which display patient symptoms and treatment goals, were integrated without major issues. The dashboard enhances communication between patients and doctors, leading to better decision-making and health outcomes.

Researchers are excited about this trial because it introduces a Patient-Reported Outcomes Dashboard with Goal Setting for individuals with inflammatory arthritis. Unlike standard care, which typically involves direct clinical assessments, this approach empowers patients to actively participate by setting personal treatment goals and providing detailed feedback on aspects like pain, fatigue, and sleep. This information is then shared with clinicians through a dashboard, potentially enhancing the personalization and effectiveness of treatment strategies. By aligning patient and clinician perspectives, this method could lead to more tailored and responsive care, ultimately improving patient satisfaction and outcomes.

Research has shown that when patients use dashboards to share symptoms and goals with doctors, communication improves. In this trial, participants in the "PRO Dashboard With Goal Setting" arm will use such a dashboard to enhance communication with clinicians. Studies have found that this sharing leads to better teamwork in care. These tools help patients feel more involved in treatment decisions. As a result, patients often feel more in control of their symptoms and can achieve their personal health goals. These dashboards can also increase overall satisfaction with care by aligning treatment plans with patient preferences.