The adaptation, reliability and validity testing of the Estonian version of the Health Assessment Questionnaire's Disability Index.

The aim of our study was the adaptation of the Health Assessment Questionnaire's Disability Index (HAQ-DI) for Estonia along with the assessment of its psychometric properties. The linguistic validation included phases of translation, back translation and testing on patients. Reliability and validity were tested on a sample of 50 rheumatoid arthritis patients by administering the HAQ-DI and the comparator instruments at two visits; disease activity and radiological stage were assessed.

Adaptation of the rheumatoid arthritis quality of life scale for Estonia.

The aim of the study was to adapt the rheumatoid arthritis quality of life scale (RAQoL) for Estonia and assess its psychometric properties. The RAQoL was translated into Estonian using the dual panel method. The translation was assessed for face and content validity by means of interviews with 15 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.

The value of the qualitative method for adaptation of a disease-specific quality of life assessment instrument: the case of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Quality of Life Scale (RAQoL) in Estonia.

Background: Due to differences in current socio-economical situation and historically shaped values, different societies have their own concepts of high-quality life. This diversity of concepts interferes with quality of life (Qol) research in health sciences. Before deciding to apply a Qol assessment tool designed in and for another society, a researcher should answer the question: how will this instrument work under the specific circumstances of my research.