Development of a Core Patient-Reported Outcome (Measures) Set for Pediatric Physical Therapy.

PURPOSE: To develop a core set of relevant patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and corresponding measures (PROMs) for pediatric physical therapy, suitable for daily practice, research, and quality assessment.

METHODS

The research group defined the core set's scope. Relevant PROs were identified through focus groups and interviews with adolescents, parents, and pediatric physical therapists, and supplemented by a scoping review. Findings were assessed by an expert panel. PROs were prioritized via a survey among pediatric physical therapists and selected for the core set. Valid PROMs were selected for each PRO.

RESULTS

Nine PROs were selected, grouped into 3 domains: functioning (physical functioning, participation, social functioning), symptoms (pain and fatigue intensity/interference), and overarching (quality of life, perceived overall health). Suitable PROMs were identified for all except "participation."

CONCLUSIONS

A core PRO(M) set for pediatric physical therapy is presented, with recommendations for use and implementation. Further research should develop a feasible generic PROM for participation.