Blog 5 minute read

Acronym Breakdown: eCOA Assessments

Generally a requirement in clinical research, electronic clinical outcomes assessments (eCOA) come with their own set of acronyms. Let’s dive into some of the most commonly used assessments, their significance, and the types of trials that can benefit the most from their implementation.

Acronyms
C-SSRS (Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale)

The C-SSRS is a validated tool designed to assess suicidal ideation and behavior in individuals. It helps identify the severity of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, as well as track changes over time. Mental health professionals, researchers, and clinicians often use the C-SSRS to evaluate suicide risk and monitor the effectiveness of interventions.

EQ-5D (EuroQol-5 Dimension)

The EQ-5D is a family of instruments to describe and value health. Assesses health-related quality of life and includes five dimensions: mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression.

SF-36 (Short Form 36)

A widely used generic questionnaire, the SF-36 assesses health-related quality of life across eight dimensions: physical functioning, role limitations due to physical health, bodily pain, general health perceptions, vitality, social functioning, role limitations due to emotional problems, and mental health.

HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale)

Assesses symptoms of anxiety and depression in hospital and clinical populations.

MADRS (Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale)

Measures the severity of depressive symptoms in patients with mood disorders.

BASDAI (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index)

Measures disease activity and severity in ankylosing spondylitis.

HAQ-DI (Health Assessment Questionnaire – Disability Index)

Assesses physical function in patients with various rheumatic diseases.

PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9)

Assesses the severity of depression by measuring nine key symptoms.

GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7)

Measures the severity of generalized anxiety disorder by assessing seven common symptoms. The GAD-7 can also be used as a screening measure of panic, social anxiety, and PTSD.

DLQI (Dermatology Life Quality Index)

Measures the impact of skin conditions on a patient’s quality of life.

IBDQ (Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire)

Assesses health-related quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

WPAI (Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire)

Assesses the impact of health conditions on work productivity and daily activities.

NDI (Neck Disability Index)

Measures disability and functional limitations related to neck pain.

KOOS (Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score)

Assesses the impact of knee injury or osteoarthritis on pain, symptoms, activities of daily living, and quality of life.

ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons)

Measures the functional status of patients with shoulder or elbow disorders.

MSIS-29 (Modified Short Form-29 for Musculoskeletal Health)

Assesses the impact of musculoskeletal conditions on physical function and quality of life.

MBI (Modified Barthel Index)

Measures activities of daily living and functional independence in patients with neurological conditions or disabilities.

QIDS (Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology)

Assesses the severity of depressive symptoms in patients with mood disorders.

FACT-G (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General)

Measures health-related quality of life in cancer patients across physical, emotional, social, and functional well-being.

PHQ-15 (Patient Health Questionnaire-15)

Assesses somatic symptom severity and its impact on daily functioning.

PSQI (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index)

Measures sleep quality and disturbances in adults.

Patient-Centric eCOA: Experience the Datacubed Health Difference

We understand that successful clinical trials go beyond data points and charts—they revolve around people. That’s why our eCOA solution places patients in the driver’s seat. Imagine a scenario where assessments are delivered directly to the patients, creating a seamless and engaging experience. With our eCOA/ePRO, patients become active participants, rather than subjects. This empowerment fosters a deeper sense of involvement and ownership, thus resulting in better compliance and retention rates.

Engagement that Drives Retention

Retention in clinical trials is a critical factor that explicitly impacts the validity and success of the study. However, here’s where we shine. Our assessments aren’t just mundane questionnaires—they’re engaging experiences. By integrating modern technology and thoughtful design, Datacubed Health ensures that patients are captivated and motivated throughout the assessment process. This engagement isn’t just a bonus; rather it’s a proven strategy to keep participants invested and committed to the trial journey.

Ready to Transform Your Trials?

In a world overflowing with options, it’s essential to choose a solution that stands out, chiefly a solution that aligns with the evolving needs of patients and researchers alike. Datacubed Health isn’t just another eCOA provider—we’re a partner in your quest for better clinical trial outcomes.

If you’re ready to embark on a clinical trial journey that especially values patients as active contributors and champions of their own health, then it’s time to experience the Datacubed Health difference. Witness firsthand how assessments become engaging experiences and how patient retention soars to new heights. Take the first step by scheduling a demo. Your trials deserve the best, and Datacubed Health is here to deliver just that—an extraordinary approach that changes the game and ushers in a brighter, healthier future. After all, your success is our success.