Exploring consumer perspective of patient-reported measures (PRMs) used in primary health care

Background: In Australia, there is currently no consensus as to what constitutes high-quality primary health care (PHC). The Quality Equity and Systems Transformation in Primary Health Care (QUEST PHC) project is developing a tool for measuring high-quality general practice to inform quality improvement and PHC funding reforms in Australia. Patient-reported measures (PRMs) of outcomes and experience are an important aspect of identifying high-quality PHC. Aim: This study aimed to explore PHC consumer perspectives on a selection of PRMs for inclusion in the QUEST PHC Tool and their value and potential use in Australian PHC. Method: Patient-reported measures (PRMs) that would be potentially suitable for use in an Australian general practice setting were identified through a systematic review of PRMs used in PHC in the last decade. Focus groups were conducted via Zoom to investigate consumers' views on the PRMs identified, and their perspectives on what constitutes high-quality general practice, and the value of PRMs in general practice. Findings: Two online focus groups were conducted with 16 participants in March 2022. Thematic analysis indicated that consumers' perspectives of high-quality PHC included patient-centred care, timely appointments and up-to-date advice and information from healthcare providers. They valued PRMs that are easy to comprehend, non-judgemental and efficient, and they highlighted the importance of ensuring that PRMs are inclusive of all people from diverse age, gender, cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Participants recognised the value of PRMs in general practice but emphasised the need for consumer input in the design of PRMs to realise that value in today's multicultural Australia. Implications: Understanding patient views and perspectives will inform the effective use of PRMs in PHC. Consumers' input should be sought in the design of PRMs or modification of existing PRMs for use in the Australian PHC context and for the development of the QUEST PHC Tool.