Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System – Depression

What it measures

An NIH-developed item response theory (IRT)-calibrated measure of depression that can be administered as a fixed short form or as a computerised adaptive test (CAT) for precise measurement with fewer items. T-scores are normed to the US general population. Part of the comprehensive PROMIS system for patient-reported outcomes.

Response format

Likert (1–5, never to always) over the past 7 days; T-score metric (population mean=50, SD=10)

Representative items

• I felt worthless.
• I felt that I had nothing to look forward to.
• I felt helpless.
• I felt depressed.
• I felt hopeless.

Usage notes & scoring

Freely available from HealthMeasures.net. T-score >=60 (1 SD above mean) suggests mild depression; >=70 (2 SD) moderate to severe. Can be administered as computerised adaptive test (PROMIS CAT) for optimal precision. Part of the PROMIS system which covers anxiety, fatigue, sleep, pain, physical function, and more.

Recommended companion scales

Citation

Cella, D., Yount, S., Rothrock, N., Gershon, R., Cook, K., Reeve, B., et al. (2007). The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS): Progress of an NIH Roadmap cooperative group during its first two years. Medical Care, 45(5 Suppl 1), S3–S11.

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