Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of outcome measurements for schizophrenia. EPSILON Study 2. European Psychiatric Services: Inputs Linked to Outcome Domains and Needs.
BACKGROUND
Research on the comparison of mental health services has identified the need for internationally standardised and reliable measurements.


OBJECTIVE
To describe the strategies adopted in the European Psychiatric Services: Inputs Linked to Outcome Domains and Needs (EPSILON) Study for the translation and cross-cultural adaptation of five European versions of the instruments.


METHODS
A protocol was developed for translation of the outcome scales, describing each step in the translation procedure. Disputed items were discussed in focus groups, which faced seven tasks: a list of topics to be discussed; choosing where the group should meet; composition of participants; conducting the group; data collection; data completion afterwards; reporting results.


RESULTS
Modifications made to instruments were: changes in the instrument structure, contents and concepts; adjustments to the instrument structure; and modifications to the instrument manual.


CONCLUSIONS
Use of focus groups is an adequate method to apply if concepts, constructs and translation issues are to be addressed; otherwise, less time-consuming methods should be considered.
Knudsen
H C
HC
Institute of Preventive Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark.
Vázquez-Barquero
J L
JL
Welcher
B
B
Gaite
L
L
Becker
T
T
Chisholm
D
D
Ruggeri
M
M
Schene
A H
AH
Thornicroft
G
G
D003431:Cross-Cultural Comparison; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005060:Europe / Q000453:epidemiology; D006302:Health Services Research / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000592:standards*; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care / Q000379:methods*; D012015:Reference Standards; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy*; D014175:Translating