Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Rheumatic diseases significantly impact daily activities, emphasizing the need to understand their occupational profiles. Identifying these profiles using the Occupational Circumstances Assessment Interview and Rating Scale can aid in tailoring treatment approaches. This study aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of Occupational Circumstances Assessment Interview and Rating Scale in rheumatic diseases. METHOD: The scale's internal construct validity was examined using the Rasch measurement model. Convergent validity of Turkish version of Occupational Circumstances Assessment Interview and Rating Scale was evaluated through Spearman's correlation coefficient, assessing associations with the Community Integration Questionnaire, World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule, Second Version and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. RESULTS: Correlation analyses demonstrated a positive correlation between Turkish version of Occupational Circumstances Assessment Interview and Rating Scale Rasch-transformed scores and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure total (r = 0.208; p = 0.009), along with negative correlations with Community Integration Questionnaire (r = -0.210; p = 0.008) and World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule, Second Version (r = -0.539; p < 0.000). CONCLUSION: Findings confirm Turkish version of Occupational Circumstances Assessment Interview and Rating Scale as a valid and reliable tool for assessing the occupational profiles of individuals with rheumatic diseases. It can guide treatment plans and help develop effective strategies to enhance daily life participation.