Using computerized tests to identify suicide risk in primary care settings
Official title: Exploratory Research Project - CAT
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11056013 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to make it easier for doctors in primary care clinics to spot signs of suicide risk in patients by using a new testing system, so they can provide better support for mental health over time.
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 start | April 5, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $198,887 |
| NIH project number | 5P50MH129701-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056013 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults over the age of 21 who visit primary care clinics and may be at risk for suicide or experiencing mental health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not seeking care in primary care settings or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the identification of suicide risk among patients visiting primary care clinics. By utilizing computerized adaptive tests (CATs), the project aims to enhance the consistency and quality of suicide risk screenings, which can vary significantly among providers. The multi-disciplinary team will develop a system that integrates these tests into routine primary care, allowing for better tracking of mental health conditions over time. This approach seeks to address barriers that currently hinder effective screening and management of suicide risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and timely identification of individuals at risk for suicide, ultimately saving lives.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using computerized adaptive testing for mental health assessments, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
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
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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.