Comparing outcomes: The Clinical Outcome in Routine Evaluation from an international point of view.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: The Clinical Outcome in Routine Evaluation-Outcome Measure (CORE-OM) is a freely accessible self-assessment questionnaire with a total of 34 items measuring the progress of psychological or psychotherapeutic treatments according to four scales (well-being, problems, functioning, and risk). The CORE-OM originated in the United Kingdom and has been translated into 54 languages and dialects. The aim of this study is to systematically compare the translated versions. METHOD: A total of 21 translations were compared using methods of systematic review and meta-analysis. RESULTS: The results show a certain heterogeneity between the studies; however, the 21 translations can be declared as equivalent. CONCLUSION: The factorial structure could not be replicated in any of translations. Therefore, further analysis of the CORE-OM domains is recommended. In addition, some supplementary restrictions on the translation process, data collection, and reporting of results are necessary to ensure comparability and quality of CORE-OM translations.