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.

Contributors

Selina Limmen, Dorinde L. Korteling, Manon A. T. Bloemen, Michiel A. J. Luijten, Raoul H. H. Engelbert, Eugene A. A. Rameckers, Hedy A. van Oers, Lotte Haverman, Marjolijn Ketelaar

Publication

Journal: Pediatric Physical Therapy
Volume: 38
Issue: 3
Pages: 364 - 373
Year: 2026
DOI: 10.1097/PEP.0000000000001304

Further Study Information

Current Stage: Completed
Date:
Funding source(s):


Health Area

Disease Category: Child health

Disease Name:

Target Population

Age Range: 5 - 18

Sex: Either

Nature of Intervention: Physical

Stakeholders Involved

- Clinical experts
- Consumers (caregivers)
- Consumers (patients)
- Patient/ support group representatives
- Researchers

Study Type

- COS Patient Reported Outcomes

Method(s)

- Focus group(s)
- Interview
- Survey