Community Engagement and Psychometric Methods in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Patient-Reported Outcome Measures and Surveys—A Scoping Review and Critical Analysis

(1) Background: In healthcare settings, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and surveys are accepted, patient-centered measures that provide qualitative information on dimensions of health and wellbeing. The level of psychometric assessment and engagement with end users for their design can vary significantly. This scoping review describes the psychometric and community engagement processes for PROMs and surveys developed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. (2) Methods: The PRISMA ScR guidelines for scoping reviews were followed, aimed at those PROMs and surveys that underwent psychometric assessment. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Quality Appraisal Tool and a narrative synthesis approach were used. (3) Results: Of 1080 articles, 14 were eligible for review. Most articles focused on a validity assessment of PROMs and surveys, with reliability being less common. Face validity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities was reported in most studies, with construct validity through exploratory factor analyses. Methodological design risks were identified in the majority of studies, notably the absence of explicit Indigenous knowledges. Variability existed in the development of PROMs and surveys for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. (4) Conclusions: Improvement in inclusion of Indigenous knowledges and research approaches is needed to ensure relevance and appropriate PROM structures. We provide suggestions for research teams to assist in future design.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander; survey; methods