Pilot Study to Evaluate Hearing Aid Service Delivery Model and Measure Benefit Using Self-Report Outcome Measures Using Community Hearing Workers in a Developing Country

Hearing loss is a major handicap in developing countries with paucity of trained audiologists and limited resources. In this pilot study trained community health workers were used to provide comprehensive hearing aid services in the community. One hundred and eleven patients were fitted with semi-digital hearing aid and were evaluated over a period of six months. They were assessed using self-report outcome measure APHAB. Results show that trained CHWs are effective in detecting disabling hearing loss and in providing HAs. APHAB can identify and pick up significant improvements in communication in daily activities and provides a realistic expectation of the benefits of a hearing aid. The model of using trained CHWs to provide rehabilitative services in audiology along with self-report outcome measures can be replicated in other developing countries.

Validation and development of a self-report outcome measure (MAP-sc) in opiate addiction

Aims and MethodTo develop and assess the viability of a self-completion version of the Maudsley Addiction Profile for assessing and monitoring the functioning of opioid-dependent patients. A total of 206 treatment-seeking opioid-dependent patients completed the Maudsley Addiction Profile interview and a self-completion version at a single clinic appointment at a substance misuse facility. Scores from both formats were compared using correlation coefficients.ResultsNon-parametric correlation coefficients between interview and self-completion version for alcohol, drug, psychiatric, family and legal problems correlated in excess of 0.7 for the majority of the 20 items that were compared.Clinical ImplicationsA short, self-administered questionnaire version of the Maudsley Addiction Profile is a feasible alternative to the interview for assessing and monitoring treatment of opioid-dependent patients. The questionnaires were usually completed by clients within 15 min. These would be particularly useful in services with very limited staffing time, such as primary care.