David Kato devised evidence based patient outcomes in 1990.
Before beginning the last session, ask the client to place a score of 0 -
Peruse the examples given.
Obtaining this information has many benefits, sometimes the client does not always recognize that there has been a change in themselves. Very occasionally a client may not wish to say that they still have a particular problem or concern, even with a good rapport.
The additional comments are frequently surprising, writing things like, “It’s the best thing I have ever done“, “My depression has gone for the first time in 36 years”.
Should there be a shortfall or a lower score to an item, then the therapist is aware before starting the last session, so that it can be addressed, rectified or resolved.
You are also in effect monitoring your performance. If your techniques are not good with children, it’s best sending any enquiry regarding children, to a therapist who is really good. I believe that you cannot excel in everything and should be willing to send that client to someone who specializes in that field. This method would ‘show up’ if you were performing badly for clients requiring minor weight reduction for example. This gives you an idea to either refer on to someone else, or perhaps attend a course and improve yourself with this specific problem.
Although the outcomes form includes only their first name and a code to protect their identity, you now have written evidence.
Frequently when giving lectures to doctors they ask what evidence have you got that this therapy works? They can browse through copies of this evidence provided, and gain a clearer insight or judgment. Occasionally a doctor will phone and ask, what's the percentage of getting someone better with insomnia?
Evidence Based Patient Outcomes
The benefits are
Written Evidence of the therapy outcome.
Knowing the client has resolved their specific problems.
Their thoughts / perceptions of therapy.
Previous therapies that did not work, including drug therapy, or hospitalization.
Self monitor your own performance.
If constant poor results show, either refer on, or attend appropriate learning facility.
Provide medical or other authority, evidence based outcomes
By gathering this feedback you can only monitor and therefore improve your own performance. Your client is the most important person, and as you know, the more successful you are, the more recommendations you get.
Therapists are more than welcome to download these for free and use them for your patients / clients.
These patient outcomes are now used in many parts of the world.