Journal of clinical epidemiology
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To develop a comorbidity scoring system that out-performs the Charlson index. ⋯ The use of the MACSS and similar alternatives to the Charlson index are a new methodologic standard for adjustment of comorbidity risk.
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Measurement of multimorbidity and comorbidity is important in epidemiologic and health services research. The aim of this research was to derive a generic multimorbidity index based on patient self-report, incorporating severity, for predicting a range of outcomes. ⋯ Our results indicate that a single index cannot predict a variety of relevant outcomes. Consequently, research undertaken to assess the impact of intervention or illness on health outcomes should use an index that is valid for predicting the specific outcome of interest.