COSMIN Database of Systematic Reviews of Outcome Measurement Instruments

Mokkink LB, de Vet HCW, Prinsen CAC, et al. - Mokkink LB, de Vet HCW, Prinsen CAC, et al. COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist for systematic reviews of patient-reported outcome measures. Qual Life Res. 2018;27(5):1171-1179. - 2024
  • Research question
  • Develop a protocol
  • Outcome selection and measurement
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doi:10.1007/s11136-017-1765-4

Developed by the international COSMIN (COnsensus based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments) initiative, the COSMIN database is an online collection of systematic reviews of outcome measurement instruments used in health research and clinical practice. It helps investigators find evidence on the validity, reliability and responsiveness of questionnaires, scales and other outcome measures before selecting them for a study. The database is a primarily a tool for identifying relevant instruments and understanding the evidence about their measurement properties, rather than for directly downloading ready to use tools.

The COSMIN database can help investigators develop a stronger clinical trial protocol by providing evidence to support the selection, justification, and implementation of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Unlike SPIRIT-PRO, which specifies what should be included in a protocol, COSMIN helps investigators decide which measurement instrument to use and why it is appropriate.

COSMIN is a valuable resource during protocol development because it enables investigators to:

  • Select PROMs with strong evidence of measurement quality
  • Justify their choice of outcome measures
  • Ensure the instrument is appropriate for the study population and objectives
  • Inform assessment schedules and analysis plans
  • Strengthen the methodological rigor and credibility of the protocol
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