As we continue to move forward toward a person-centered, evidence based healthcare model of integrated service delivery, a more comprehensive understanding of outcome measures is essential. Research indicates health disparities in rural populations in Hawai`i, specifically among Native Hawaiians. 

Native Hawaiians experience significantly higher health and behavioral health risks, poorer health status, and lower life expectancy rates compared to other ethnic groups in Hawai`i. Contributing to this problem is a lack of valid assessment measures to identify and monitor treatment progress with rural populations. 

Preliminary analyses of the SF-12 and Duke Health Inventory of approximately 500 patients, the majority who are Native Hawaiian with comorbid physical and mental health conditions, recruited from various community health centers in Hawai`i, support the use of both measures as valid and reliable for rural populations in Hawai`i. Recommendations for future research directions will be discussed.