Development and validation of the Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire

There is growing recognition of the importance of assessing patient perceptions of treatment, especially patient satisfaction. The Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (GTSQ) was developed to assess satisfaction with GERD medication. A web-based survey, which included the GTSQ and the GERD Symptom Assessment Scale (GSAS), was administered in September 2003 to 2511 subjects taking prescription GERD medication, identified as H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Results showed excellent reliability of the GTSQ subscales (from 0.82-0.95) and validity with respect to two GSAS subscales. Rabeprazole (Aciphex) subjects taking 1 pill per day were statistically more satisfied than those taking 2 pills per day for all subscales except "Daytime Relief" and "Quick and Long-Lasting." Those who stayed on rabeprazole therapy longer showed statistically significant greater satisfaction on the "Daytime Relief" and "Health-Related Quality of Life" scales. The GTSQ has high reliability and can be used to assess aspects of satisfaction with GERD medication.