The Iatrogenesis Perception Scale: A Methodological Study

The study focuses on developing a scale to measure the perception of iatrogenesis, a concept referring to unintended health consequences caused by medical interventions. Understanding iatrogenic effects is crucial for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers to improve patient safety and healthcare quality. The research draws on Ivan Illich's framework, which categorizes iatrogenesis into clinical, social, and cultural dimensions, highlighting the broader societal and cultural impacts of medicalization. The study employed a quantitative research design using a survey method. Data were collected from 539 adult participants in Turkey through convenience sampling. The Perception of Iatrogenesis Scale, initially comprising 28 items, was developed based on Illich's work and refined through expert feedback. Statistical analyses included Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to assess construct validity, while Cronbach's Alpha values were used to evaluate reliability. The scale's context validity was tested using the Distrust in the Health System Scale. The final scale consisted of 19 items across three dimensions: clinical, social, and cultural iatrogenesis. EFA revealed a three-factor structure explaining 50.022% of the total variance, with factor loadings ranging from 0.52 to 0.72. CFA confirmed the model's acceptable fit (GFI = 0.924, RMSEA = 0.056). Reliability analysis showed Cronbach's Alpha values between 0.60 and 0.862, indicating good internal consistency. A positive correlation was found between distrust in the health system and the perception of iatrogenesis (p < 0.001). The Perception of Iatrogenesis Scale is a valid and reliable tool for assessing individuals' perceptions of unintended medical outcomes. It provides valuable insights for identifying and mitigating iatrogenic risks in healthcare. The study underscores the importance of addressing clinical, social, and cultural dimensions of iatrogenesis to enhance healthcare safety and effectiveness. Future research could explore the scale's applicability in diverse populations and healthcare settings.