[Evaluation and improvement of QOL among IBD patients]

This article provided a short review on the assessment of quality of life (QOL) among patients with ulcerative colitis. Quantitative approach with psychometric measures has empirically showed that psycho-social aspects of patient's QOL are often affected by her clinical, psychological, and social conditions. Although the control of disease activities plays a pivotal role for improving patient's QOL, more holistic approach such as psychoeducational intervention should also be considered to enhance patient's self-efficacy and sense of control. Besides, qualitative research suggests that helping patient's narrative reconstruction through enhanced communication with the physician may be the most powerful tool that the physician can provide for improving patient's QOL.