The impact of rater training on clinical outcomes assessment data: a literature review

Abstract

Rater training is a well-recognized approach to minimizing inaccuracy and variability in clinical outcomes assessments common in clinical trials. However, there is a dearth of empirical research on the types of rater training and qualifications that contribute to improved accuracy, inter-rater reliability and intra-rater reliability. Herein, we discuss the need for rater training in clinical trials and review publications that report data on rater characteristics, training modalities and outcomes in terms of accuracy and reliability of clinical outcomes data.