WORKING GROUP NAME: HEALTH EQUITY

In the field of outcome research, instruments (tools used to measure outcomes) are a potential source of health inequity. This is because they are often developed and tested in populations who regularly take part in research i.e. predominantly white, middle class and well-educated. As a result, they may not measure the outcome as well when applied to under-represented populations.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THEIR VIRTUAL SIG NOVEMBER 4th 3pm EST

The aim of this session is to describe the key questions for researchers to consider to promote health equity when developing or using outcome measures in rheumatology. We will present the results of a rapid review to assess equity considerations in patient-reported outcome measures.
In small groups, and considering the PROGRESS-Plus framework, discuss the following 2 questions:
1. In the development of a new instrument (for example to measure disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis) what are the key features that are likely to facilitate validation in a wide range of populations/groups to promote equity?
2. When selecting an existing instrument for a study, what are the important factors to consider to ensure wide participation in the study across under-represented populations?