Measuring quality of life in patients with schizophrenia:an overview

Abstract

Quality of life (QoL) is of great importance to patients with schizophrenia and their families. Although the use of QoL measures may contribute to better adherence to therapeutic interventions, more satisfaction with care, improved health outcomes and reduction of health costs, QoL assessment remains underutilized in clinical practice. In this review, the authors propose a reflection on the limitations and lack of impact of QoL measures in clinical care. Our argument is based on three challenges regarding conceptual aspects and metrics, use and limits and the usefulness of measuring QoL. For each challenge, the authors have suggested pragmatic proposals and new research directions to promote the use of QoL measures in the future. These avenues of research involve a shared responsibility between QoL researchers, the medical community and decision makers. Close collaboration between all parties is necessary to promote the use of QoL measures in schizophrenia.