A standard set for outcome measurement in patients with hand and wrist conditions: Consensus by the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement Hand and Wrist Working Group

Robbert M. Wouters, Adedayo Jobi-Odeneye, Alethse de la Torre, Andria Joseph, ICHOM Hand and Wrist Working Group, Steven E. R. Hovius

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

49 Citations (Scopus)
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Abstract

Purpose: To describe the principles, process, and results of creating the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) standard set for hand and wrist conditions. 

Methods: Following the standardized methods of ICHOM, an international working group of hand surgeons, therapists, and researchers was assembled to develop an evidence-based, patient-centered, standard set of outcome measures for patients with hand and wrist conditions. Multiple systematic reviews were performed to support our choices of outcome domains and tools for hand and wrist conditions. Fourteen video conferences were held between March 2018 and March 2020, and a modified Delphi process was used. 

Results: A consensus was reached on 5 measurement tracks: the thumb, finger, wrist, nerve, and severe hand trauma tracks, with a distinction between regular and extended tracks for which specific allocation criteria applied. The standard set contains a selection of outcome tools and predefined time points for outcome measurement. Additionally, we developed a hierarchy for using the tracks when there are multiple conditions, and we selected risk-adjustment, case-mix variables. 

Conclusions: The global implementation of the ICHOM standard set for hand and wrist conditions may facilitate value-based health care for patients with hand and wrist conditions. 

Clinical relevance: The ICHOM standard set for hand and wrist conditions can enable clinical decision making, quality improvement, and comparisons between treatments and health care professionals.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)841-855.e7
Number of pages22
JournalJournal of Hand Surgery-American Volume
Volume46
Issue number10
Early online date27 Jul 2021
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 2021

Keywords

  • Consensus
  • ICHOM
  • hand
  • outcome assessment (health care)
  • value-based health care
  • wrist

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