Psychosocial Patient-Reported Outcomes in Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes: a Review and Case Example

Purpose of Review The purpose of this review is to define psychosocial patient-reported outcomes (PROs) relevant to pediatric and adolescent diabetes populations. Potential domains for PROs include a spectrum of emotional, behavioral, social, physical, overall health, and/or care management areas. A literature review of potential PRO measures, selection criteria, and implementation strategies including a case example will be presented. Recent Findings Among the pediatric, adolescent, and emerging adult populations, research indicates a relative higher risk for distress, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders as compared to peers without diabetes. Use of PRO measures can expand providers' focus beyond glycemic control, or simply hemoglobin A1c, to better appreciate the impact of diabetes on the whole child/adolescent, and provide services that address patients' individually identified needs, which are most salient to them. Summary Successful selection and implementation of psychosocial PRO measures should be designed to include pathways for real-time provider interaction with the patient and respective PRO data to guide clinical care.