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Computerized administration of the Diagnostic Interview Schedule
A G Blouin1, E L Perez, J H Blouin
1Department of Psychiatry, Ottawa Civic Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
Psychiatry Research
|March 1, 1988
Summary
A computerized version of the Diagnostic Interview Schedule (DIS) shows acceptable test-retest reliability for psychiatric diagnoses. Patients found the computer-based assessment easy to use, supporting its clinical application.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Medical Informatics
- Psychological Assessment
Background:
- The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Diagnostic Interview Schedule (DIS) is a structured interview for psychiatric diagnoses.
- Its complexity and training requirements have limited widespread use.
- Computerized administration offers a potential solution to these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the test-retest reliability and usability of a computerized version of the DIS (C-DIS).
- To assess patient attitudes towards using the C-DIS.
Main Methods:
- 100 volunteers (80 psychiatric patients, 20 controls) completed the C-DIS twice.
- The Computer Attitude Scale (CAS) measured user experience.
- Test-retest reliability was assessed for diagnostic categories.
Main Results:
- The C-DIS demonstrated acceptable test-retest reliability, consistent with previous DIS validity studies.
- Reliability varied across different diagnoses.
- Patients reported the C-DIS was easy to use and improved their computer skills.
Conclusions:
- Computerized administration of the DIS is a viable and user-friendly method for psychiatric assessment.
- The C-DIS can potentially increase the accessibility and efficiency of diagnostic interviews.