Deciding what outcome measures to use

By Tracy Gilzene, Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (BHFT)

We created a pros and cons list of all the outcome measures that we knew were in circulation. In doing this we linked with several other Trusts and groups such as UKRCOM. 

We did this with all known CROMS, PROMS and PREMS then bought the results to a working group to discuss. This group consisted of representatives from all our services and included a commissioner representative. 

At the working group, we chose a CROM, three PROMs (for use in different services, and a PREM.

Clinical effectiveness Clinician-reported outcome measure (CROM)

Health of the Nation Outcome Scale (HoNOS): social functioning of people with mental illness. Rigorous testing and development gave rise to current version. Most widely used clinical outcome measure in England. Sole CROM recommended by NHS England / NHS Improvement (5YFV-Developing Quality and Outcome Measures). More information about HoNOS.

Clinical effectiveness Patient reported outcome measure (PROM)

Dialog: mandated for EIP nationally (valid for psychosis only)

QPR: mandated for EIP nationally (valid for psychosis only)

ReQoL: is a generic outcome tool which is commissioned by DH in the context of increasing the use of outcomes which measure quality of life and recovery across a range of conditions. 

It has been developed using a rigorous, mixed methods framework, involving extensive input from experts-by-experience at each stage of the development. The robust methodology applied, indicates it has the potential to be a useful, generic tool for measuring recovery. More information about ReQoL.

Patient-reported experience measure (PREM)

Friends and Family Test: The NHS Friends and Family Test (FFT) was created to help service providers and commissioners understand whether their patients are happy with the service provided, or where improvements are needed. It is a quick and anonymous way to give views after receiving care or treatment across the NHS. More information about the Friends and Family Test.