Psychometric evaluation of patient-reported experience measures: is it valid?

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Psychometrics
• Patient Experience Measurement

Background:

• Psychometric methods are frequently recommended for validating patient experience measures.
• Concerns exist regarding the applicability of standard psychometric assumptions to patient experience data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the suitability of psychometric methods for patient experience measurement validation.
• To advocate for a more nuanced approach to selecting validation methods for patient experience data.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on psychometric validation in patient experience research.
• Critical analysis of the assumptions underlying common psychometric techniques.
• Exploration of alternative validation strategies.

Main Results:

• Some psychometric methods rely on assumptions that may not align with the nature of patient experience.
• A "one-size-fits-all" approach using psychometric methods may not be appropriate.
• The fit of psychometric methods to the specific measurement application requires careful consideration.

Conclusions:

• Psychometric methods should not be the default for patient experience measurement validation.
• A critical appraisal of psychometric methods' appropriateness is essential.
• Investigating alternative validation approaches is crucial for accurate patient experience assessment.