Healthcare communication distress scale: Pilot factor analysis and validity

Abstract

ObjectiveTo develop psychometrically an evidence-based, patient-centred measure of patient-practitioner communication. We explored the underlying constructs of a self-report questionnaire measuring adult patients’ enduring perceptions of their emotional experiences when communicating with primary healthcare practitioners. MethodsA cross-sectional on-line survey included 16 items from a piloted questionnaire, as well as existing measures of generalised anxiety, psychological distress, and body vigilance. Exploratory factor analysis and hierarchical multiple regression were used to explore underlying constructs in an Australian sample (N = 220). ResultsA 6-item communication distress factor and a 3-item environmental arousal factor were supported, indicating good face validity and internal consistency. Bivariate correlations support convergent and discriminant validity for both factors. Hierarchical analysis exploring predictors of communication distress included sex, age, and chronic condition status; and scores on body vigilance, anxiety, distress, and environmental arousal in healthcare. Environmental arousal was the most important significant predictor of communication distress. ConclusionThe patient communication questionnaire can be developed into a brief scale to measure patient distress associated with engaging with, and communicating in, healthcare settings. Practice implicationsA brief self-report measure to identify patients’ communication distress and environmental arousal could assist in clinical practice and provide useful data in healthcare communication research.