Use a flexible approach and support people to complete patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in the way that works best for them.
People may choose to:
- yarn as a group
- talk one-on-one with the health professional
- complete the questions on their own device using the QR code from the HOPE platform, or on paper.
Group sessions can introduce patient-reported measures (PRMs), explain a PROM, answer questions and share resources and videos. Participants hear experiences of others, which can build confidence and strengthen the group. Health professionals partner each person to decide the best approach.
Case studies
These case studies show how health services can create environments that are culturally safe and inclusive for Aboriginal consumers.
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District Aunty Jean’s Program
Aunty Bev, program facilitator at Aunty Jean's, says a strong Aboriginal workforce is key to the successful use of PROMs.
“PROMs wouldn’t have made it into Aunty Jean’s without the full support of the Aboriginal Chronic Care Unit facilitators. Introducing PROMs in a group setting created a safe space where people could yarn about what PROMs are, why they matter, and how they can help track health and wellbeing over time.
“Some participants took a bit longer to come on board, and that’s fair enough. We worked out a model where 2 participants each week complete a PROM during their regular one-on-one check-in with the nurse.
“Every PROM assessment is followed up, no exceptions. If any high-risk needs come up, it’s flagged straight away. It’s about respect, courtesy, trust and genuine care. The facilitator organises follow-up, whether that’s a referral to the right clinician or a case discussion with services already involved in the person’s care.
“It’s especially good to hear people say PROMs helps them monitor their health and become more aware of it − now more than ever.”
Western NSW Local Health District Planned Care for Better Health
The Western NSW Patient-Reported Measures team outlines the benefits of using a co-designed, culturally safe approach to support consumers.
Early on, we brought Aboriginal Health Workers and Health Practitioners together to shape how PROMs are introduced and used. This helped us to develop a respectful, culturally relevant way to invite Aboriginal consumers to take part.
This co-design approach ensured the process was meaningful and appropriate for the communities we serve. A case from the Planned Care for Better Health team shows the value of PROMs.
An Aboriginal Health Practitioner used the Patient‑Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System – 29‑item profile (PROMIS-29) with a consumer with good results. The practitioner met face-to-face with the young Aboriginal woman who had a history of anxiety. She said her symptoms felt different from her usual experience.
Her PROM responses, along with clinical observations, prompted the Dubbo cardiology team to reassess the initial assumptions and order further tests. These confirmed cardiac failure; a diagnosis that may have been delayed without the PROM.
The consumer’s care plan changed immediately, with cardiac treatment started and coordinated follow-up arranged through her cardiologist and the cardiac clinic. She remains engaged in her care and continues to attend follow-up appointments.
This case shows how culturally safe PROMs capture what matters to consumers, support decision-making and improve outcomes. When people feel safe and respected to share their health experiences, clinicians gain deeper insight and care is strengthened.