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The rationale for developing and implementing core outcome batteries for routine use in service settings and psychotherapy outcome research

Abstract:

The Department of Health (DoH; 1996) Strategic Review of Psychotherapy identified the need for practitioners to use similar outcome measures as part of the framework of clinical effectiveness. In this paper, we present the rationale for developing and implementing a core outcome battery in routine clinical practice as well as psychotherapy research. We outline the forces that have determined the current corpus of outcome measures and contrast these with rational criteria for two levels of outcome batteries: a core battery, and problem-specific batteries. In addition, we identify potential referential measures that act as links between a core and problem-specific outcome batteries. Criteria are set out that a core battery should meet. Emphasis is given to two unique criteria: a collaborative approach to instrument development between researchers and clinicians, and the collection of a subsequent national database. Meeting such suggestions will benefit researchers and clinicians as well as promoting innovation in measurement practice.