Validated Screening Tools

Staff in Taiao Ora, the Stroke service at Te Toka Tumai Auckland complete screening with every patient. The keyworker completes the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 with every patient. This is done with the patient, not left for them to do alone or solely with family support. If the person has significant communication difficulties, they may use the SADQ-10 or the DISCs. These assessments are often completed in conjunction with the speech-language therapist. This structured screening is supplemented through disciplinary based assessments, and patient and family questionnaires which cover areas such as personality, hobbies and carer stress and expectations. The findings of these are discussed in the IDT, which is attended by a psychologist, where a plan is developed. The service audits mood screen completion on a monthly basis.