Preliminary findings from the Implementation of a wet macular degeneration patient-reported outcome and experience measure

Abstract

Aim:The aim of the study was to understand the perspectives, experiences, and concerns of patients with wet macular degeneration (MD). Background: There are limited tools available with real-world applications to assess patient-reported outcomes and experiences in those with wet MD. Methods: A prospective analysis of 143 (M:F 46:97) patients with wet MD utilizing a wet MD patient-reported outcome and experience measure (POEM). Results: The perceived understanding of their diagnosis, management plan, side effect acceptability, as well as their health practitioner satisfaction was favorable. There was much variability observed related to the perception of deterioration, concerns surrounding the loss of visual function, and the effect on everyday living with high interquartile ranges. Patients with worse visual acuity, those receiving treatment for a greater duration, and currently having active treatment in at least one eye indicated a perception of greater diagnosis understanding. Worse vision resulted in more interference with daily living. Conclusions: The MD POEM can identify concerns pertinent to the patient. Qualitative analysis can be applied to interpret these findings to deliver health-care aligned to patient expectations. Clinical Significance: The establishment of patient-centered care and delivery of holistic outcomes.