Comparing outcomes: The Clinical Outcome in Routine Evaluation from an international point of view

OBJECTIVES: The Clinical Outcome in Routine Evaluation–Outcome Measure (CORE‐OM) is a freely accessible self‐assessment questionnaire with a total of 34 items measuring the progress of psychological or psychotherapeutic treatments according to four scales (well‐being, problems, functioning, and risk). The CORE‐OM originated in the United Kingdom and has been translated into 54 languages and dialects. The aim of this study is to systematically compare the translated versions. METHOD: A total of 21 translations were compared using methods of systematic review and meta‐analysis. RESULTS: The results show a certain heterogeneity between the studies; however, the 21 translations can be declared as equivalent. CONCLUSION: The factorial structure could not be replicated in any of translations. Therefore, further analysis of the CORE‐OM domains is recommended. In addition, some supplementary restrictions on the translation process, data collection, and reporting of results are necessary to ensure comparability and quality of CORE‐OM translations.