The dimensions of health outcomes: a cross-validated examination of health status measurement.

Abstract
Two independently developed patient outcome measurement instruments were administered to forty-eight subjects with rheumatoid arthritis using a random cross-over design. The independent estimates of physical disability and pain are highly correlated. Each instrument displayed highly significant relationships with global health, providing evidence for convergent validity. The results demonstrate that health status is composed of at least three major dimensions: physical disability, psychological disability, and pain.