What quality of life scales are usable in general practice and primary care research? A systematic review.

Paul Aujoulat, Guillaume Curral, Maryline Leon, Jean Yves Le Reste

Keywords: Quality of Life, Primary Care, Systematic Review

Background:

The goal of general practice is to support life but also to ensure an optimal quality of life (QoL). Many primary care researches use this approach. Consequently the importance of utilizing reliable QoL scales is of interest.

Research questions:

This study aimed to assess the accuracy of qol measurement within the scales available for primary care patients.

Method:

A systematic literature review was conducted till June 2023 in PubMed. The search equation employed was "((Quality of life) AND ‘Survey and questionnaires’) AND ‘general population’)." The PRISMA statement was followed and the Rayyan software facilitated the review process. The analysis was carried out by two researchers working blind. The cutpoints for reliability coefficients were Cronbach's alpha > 0.7 and ICC > 0.6. these cutpoints were used to ensure sufficient internal consistency and satisfactory reproducibility.

Results:

2049 article were identified, among which 64 were selected. Relevant scales in primary care include SF-36, EQ 5D 3L and 5L, SF 6D, WHOQOL-BREF, and WHOQOL-100. The average response rate was 84.8%. The responsiveness of the scales varied due to their underlying conceptual view of qol. This emphasizing the importance of selecting the appropriate scale based on the underneath objectives of measuring qol in addition to satisfactory validity data. The development of electronic questionnaires seemed relevant, as they boast higher response rates and yield more valid responses, adding an efficient and pertinent dimension to data collection.

Conclusions:

This study provides formal insights into the selection and utilization of quality of life scales in primary care. It underscores the significance of considering various factors for a precise and meaningful measurement of patients' quality of life. These findings will help practitioners and researchers in choosing the most suitable scale based on their specific needs.

Points for discussion:

How would you manage to choose a quality of life scales for your protocols ?

Personally, which scale would you choose to explore your own quality of life?

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