Validation of the short-form interactive computerized quality of life scale (ICQOL-SF)

To evaluate the concurrent validity of the short form of an interactive computerized quality of life (ICQOL-SF) measure for patients with chronic pain.

The ICQOL-SF, consisting of one global and four separate domains of quality of life, was administered to 300 chronic pain patients in two pain centers. Participants also completed the full 21-item interactive computerized quality of life (ICQOL) program, a computerized version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-BREF), and a computerized assessment of pain (CAP) program. In a second study, an independent group of 336 chronic pain patients completed the ICQOL-SF, the WHOQOL-BREF, and the CAP.

The ICQOL-SF in both studies demonstrated adequate concurrent validity with the WHOQOL-BREF (r = 0.75) and the CAP (r = 0.84). The five-item ICQOL-SF was also highly correlated with the full ICQOL (r = 0.90). Surprisingly, older individuals with more formal education and longer pain duration reported better quality of life. Number of past surgeries was negatively correlated with quality of life.

The five-item short-form interactive computerized method to assess quality of life demonstrates adequate concurrent validity and would be a useful, brief software measure in the assessment of persons with chronic pain. Additional studies are needed to determine the reliability and sensitivity to change of the ICQOL-SF.