Examining Equivalence and Feasibility of Computerized Adaptive SF-36 Taiwan Version

Methods

A total of 51 adult cancer patients were assigned to complete both paper and computer SF-36 versions before and after clinical consultation. Correlation and paired-t test were applied to examine the equivalence of both administration modes. Personal characteristics such as computer anxiety was also assessed to evaluate its influences upon patients responses under the computerized administration.

Results: There were very significant correlation between the computer and paper version (0.87 to 0.98) for all SF-36 scales and summary scores (all p <0.001). No significant effects were found for the degree of computer anxiety upon responses towards the computerized version. Discussion: Computerized SF-36 is feasible and acceptable for routine daily clinical use.

It provides responses from the computer mode are comparable to those to the paper form, and ensure the use of computerized SF-36 version will not biased by the personal characteristics related to computer anxiety.