We analyse outcome data in health care, develop corresponding instruments, optimize measurement scales and adapt assessments to different contexts. Outcomes include the measurement of clinical signs and symptoms as well as results of medical interventions, but also quality of life, functioning, pain, fatigue or the impact of exercise-induced dyspnoea in daily life - outcomes which are most important for patients. In people with acute and chronic health conditions of the cardiovascular system, other internal organs or the musculoskeletal system, in children, in older adults and in rehabilitation, it is essential to include the perspective of patients into outcome measurement.
The Section for Outcomes Research develops methods to measure, analyse and compare outcomes in health care by using complex scores, patient-reported instruments, multivariate models, Rasch analyses, mixed methods, and activity- and motion-analyses. Data gathering is optimized with sensor technologies and e-health solutions. Furthermore, qualitative research methods are developed and applied.