Computerized adaptive screening for suicide risk in primary care
Exploratory Research Project - CAT
This project will use smarter, shorter computer questionnaires in primary care clinics to find and track suicide risk for adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11324921 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would complete brief computerized adaptive questionnaires on a tablet or phone during primary care visits that change the questions based on your answers so they are shorter and more relevant. The results would be linked into the clinic's electronic health record so clinicians can see risk levels and follow up when needed. A multidisciplinary team will design, pilot, and refine the tool to fit clinical workflows while protecting privacy. The project includes plans for tracking risk over time to help with monitoring and earlier support.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) who visit participating primary care clinics, particularly those with anxiety, depression, or concerns about suicidal thoughts, are the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People under 21, those who do not receive care at participating clinics, or patients who do not want to complete computerized questionnaires may not receive direct benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help primary care teams spot and monitor suicide risk earlier and more consistently, enabling timelier support or referral.
How similar studies have performed: Computerized adaptive tests have shown promise for measuring mental health symptoms, but using CATs specifically to detect and monitor suicide risk in primary care is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davis-Martin, Rachel Elizabeth — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Davis-Martin, Rachel Elizabeth
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.