Routine outcome measurement (ROM), also known as routine outcome monitoring, refers to the systematic tracking of client progress during psychotherapy using a standardized self-report inventory or rating scale. Therapists administer brief outcome measures at regular intervals (e.g. each session or monthly) to quantify symptoms, functioning, or well-being. The goal is to use this feedback to inform treatment decisions, tailor interventions, and promptly address issues if a patient is not improving as expected.
Effects on treatment.
Research studies and literature reviews have examined the impact of routine outcome measurement on psychotherapy effectiveness. Overall, the evidence from literature reviews suggests that integrating ROM with feedback to clinicians can modestly improve treatment outcomes, with especially notable benefits for clients at risk of poor outcomes. For example, a 2012 systematic review of 45 randomized controlled trials covering psychotherapy in mental health settings reported generally positive effects of ROM with feedback.
Frequently used outcome measures.
A variety of standardized questionnaires are used for routine outcome measurement in psychotherapy. Five of the most frequently cited outcome measures include: