Understanding patient advance directives status in a community oncology practice using an electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePRO) system

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network and the American Society of Clinical Oncology recommend that providers encourage early advance care planning with their patients1; yet, many cancer patients do not have advance directives (ADs). A potential reason for low AD rates is inadequate communication between the provider and patient. To address this gap, we developed an outpatient clinic AD initiative for any stage cancer patients via an ePRO system. The AD module was designed to ensure that patients are aware of ADs and to assess whether or not the patient had ADs, specifically a Living Will and/or a durable power of attorney. The study purpose was to assess patient AD status at the patient’s initial visit to an oncology clinic.