The first task of the PROMIS network was to create a protocol for developing a domain map (framework) that portrayed the structure of each target domain and its conceptual framework or, where applicable, hierarchical structure. Existing outcome assessment questionnaires use an explicit or implicit framework that typically includes the concepts of physical function or limitation, mental health or distress, and social function, with many also including symptoms (e.g., fatigue, pain). The Steering Committee (SC)-approved protocol for the domain mapping activity specified that the preliminary PROMIS framework would be developed through independent literature reviews by three of the funded entities in PROMIS I: the Stanford PRS, the Pittsburgh PRS, and the Statistical Coordinating Center (SCC) at Northwestern University that supported the PROMIS Network during the 2004-2009 funding cycle. The independent literature review phase was followed by a consensus-building Delphi process and statistical analysis of available data regarding dimensionality of health status assessment. Early in the first year, the SC endorsed the World Health Organization (WHO) physical, mental, and social framework.15 Other organizing frameworks were considered, such as the WHO international classification of functioning and a 2-factor model of physical and mental health. However, after discussion and careful consideration, the SC opted to retain the WHO tripartite framework as compelling and sufficiently broad and inclusive to enable important social dimensions of health to be developed further than has been done to date. After achieving consensus on the broad WHO framework, the SC launched the Domain Mapping Protocol. Under this protocol, PROMIS network investigators used a modified Delphi approach to participate in multiple rounds of framework review and revision until consensus was reached on a detailed articulation of subordinate domains beneath the broad physical, mental, and social headings. Click here to view the Domain Hierarchy Protocol.
The text above is an excerpt from the Cella et al, 2007 Medical Care manuscript. For a full summary of the domain hierarchy development process please references the following manuscript: Cella, D., Yount, S., Rothrock, N., Gershon, R., Cook, K., Reeve, B., Ader, D., Fries, J. F., Bruce, B., Matthias, R., & on behalf of the PROMIS cooperative group. (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), S3-11. (PMID: 17443116)
The domain framework and development map of PROMIS item banks for use with ADULT populations is currently getting updated by the Domain Framework committee. We will post the updated framework here as soon as it is completed.
Click here to see the status of PROMIS item bank development for use with PEDIATRIC populations.