OBJECTIVES: To identify preferences for use of patient reported outcomes in cancer patients.

METHODS: 154 people with cancer responded to an online survey, in which they were asked about their preferences on methods and frequency of reporting daily symptoms. Respondents were also asked about their beliefs regarding the importance of reporting of symptoms.

RESULTS: 65% of respondents indicated that they would prefer to report changes in their daily symptoms in an electronic diary. 15% preferred to report directly to their doctor at study visits, while 13% felt they would prefer a paper diary and 6% would not want to report their symptoms at all. Most, 87%, would prefer to complete their study questionnaires at home vs at a clinic visit.

Approximately 43% of survey respondents felt reporting symptoms “As they occur” is the optimal frequency, while 35% felt “Once a day” was frequent enough.

88% of respondents believe that if they complete multiple clinical trial questionnaires on an electronic device, the doctor will review the answers they provide. 73% indicated that it is “Very important” for doctors to review their responses about their health status.

CONCLUSIONS: Our survey found that, when considering participating in a clinical trial, most patients with cancer would prefer reporting their daily symptom changes using an electronic diary at home rather than during a clinic visit. Moreover, the majority of respondents felt that they should report symptoms as they occur, and many indicated once a day was preferable. In addition, it is clear that in this survey sample, patients believe that not only will doctors look at their responses they provide electronically, but that it is very important that they do so. These result support the use and importance of daily electronic diaries in clinical trials in oncology.