The 3-step system: Triage, assessment and matched intervention > Screening to identify those at elevated risk

Several psychosocial screening tools are available to identify individuals at risk of poor recovery and delayed RTW due to psychosocial factors. Here are some examples, but there are many other options.

•The ÖMPSQ-SF is considered the gold standard. It consists of 10 items that assess pain, fear avoidance, mood and work expectations. Site of injury or pain is not important so it has widespread applicability.

•The AB-5 tool predicts risk rating using five questions and was developed to meet key characteristics required for a triage screening tool.

•The STarT Back Screening Tool is a 9-item scale specifically designed for people with low back pain.

•The Yellow Flag Questionnaire is a conversational tool to identify barriers

These tools vary in length, applicability and validation but all aim to triage patients into risk categories (e.g., high/low, or high/medium/low) for targeted interventions.

The short form ÖMPSQ-SF (10 questions) has strong evidence as a good predictor of work disability. Multiple studies have found this tool is effective when applied in the workplace for early screening. It can be administered to an injured worker by a trained case manager, health professional or RTW coordinator, either by phone or in-person. Online administration is also feasible and practical.

Alternatively, a briefer evidence-based triage tool may be more appropriate in the early claim management context. These tools include high-level psychosocial risk queries such as capacity to manage activities of daily living, ability to cope and work expectations. High-level questions are easier and more acceptable for non-health personnel to discuss with new claimants. Examples of such tools are the ‘How are you Coping Gauge’ and Abilita AB-5 tool.[5] More information on screening tools is included in the accompanying Supporting Implementation Resources.

Screening tools

Screening tools