Purpose: The aims of this study were to investigate the psychometric properties of the Norwegian version of the short health scale (SHS), and to study the impact of socio-demographic and clinical data.
Methods: A total of 140 patients without severe disease activity were included. The participants completed the SHS and three other well-validated HRQoL questionnaires short form 36, inflammatory bowel disease questionnaire and the rating form of inflammatory bowel disease patient concerns at the baseline. Sixty-three participants completed the SHS at a second visit after 6 months in order to calculate test-retest reliability and responsiveness. In addition, socio-demographic and clinical variables were obtained and entered into a linear regression analysis if they were found to be significantly associated with SHS outcome.
Results: Validity was confirmed by good correlation with other similar HRQoL constructs and the ability to discriminate between IBD symptom scores. The reliability was strong (Cronbach's α 0.85). The test-retest reliability in three out of four SHS items was weak, but the questionnaire demonstrated a good responsiveness. Current IBD symptoms were the most important predictor of SHS outcome.
Conclusions: The Norwegian SHS demonstrated satisfactory psychometrical properties and is suitable for use in the follow-up of IBD patients.