The problem of patient-centred outcome measurement in psychiatry: Why metrology hasn't mattered and why it should

Abstract

In psychiatry, there is a call for clinicians to use patient-centred outcome data routinely at the point of care to help tailor treatment plans to meet patient preferences and needs. Given that many decisions in psychiatry are constructed from patient narratives, it is critical that the conceptual, empirical, and measurement structure underlying patient reported outcome measures is robust and patient-centred. Here, we argue for the systematic accruement of patient-centred data in psychiatry to meaningfully enhance the treatment of mental disorders. Specifically, we suggest three crucial considerations for system transformation: (1) the engagement of international patient research partners to conceptualize and prioritize outcomes; (2) the application of modern test theory to develop and evaluate patient-centred outcome measures; and (3) funding allocation accountable to evidence-based services prioritized by patients.