The development and use of evidence-based instruments to measure quality of life and enhance organisational performance

Korte inhoud:Aim: As the concept of quality of life (QOL) evolved there came a need for a systematic approach to the assessment of domain-referenced quality of life outcomes. It is important to understand the context within which the QOL concept is used. This presentation describes the framework to conceptualise and measure QOL, provides an example of a QOL questionnaire based on current measurement best practices and demonstrates how evidence based QOL instruments are used to enhance organisational performance. Methods: The development of the Personal Outcomes Scale (POS) provides an example of a QOL questionnaire based on current measurement best practices. Examples are given of how the POS and other instruments are used. Results: A thorough research process resulted in a solid instrument to measure the QOL of people with ID in terms of support outcomes. The POS provides information on actions to enhance an individual’s well-being and contributes to evidence-based use of quality of life data. Evidence based QOL instruments are used in several ways in enhancing organisational performance. Conclusion: The development of the POS, with data on reliability and validity, and the availability of more QOL measurement instruments, set the stage for use of evidence based work in enhancing organisational performance.

Jaar van publicatie:2012