Validity and reliability of the client perception of value questionnaire

To describe the processes involved in and the results from psychometric testing of the client perception of value (CPV) questionnaire.

The CPV was developed through literature review, review of consumer participation models, consultation with industry experts and focus groups with aged care residents and their relatives. CPV data from 391 residents residing in 21 residential aged care facilities and 671 relatives of residents were collected from June-September 2008. Multi-trait analysis, Cronbach's alpha and exploratory factor analysis were used to determine the psychometric properties of the two versions of the CPV instrument. Means, standard deviations, 95% confidence intervals, medians and IQRs were calculated for each of the nine service areas within the two versions.

Both resident and relative versions demonstrated adequate internal consistency reliability. Exploratory factor analysis replicated the service areas as initially conceived. In general, residents reported higher scores than relatives on the service areas.

The CPV is a valid and reliable tool that can be used for assessing residents' and relatives' level of satisfaction and perceptions of the quality of aged care service.