The Mood Assessment Program: a computerised diagnostic tool for deriving management plans for mood disorders

Abstract

The Mood Assessment Program (MAP) is a computerised assessment and diagnostic program developed at the Black Dog Institute, Sydney, to assist with diagnostic subtyping and management of mood disorders. MAP decision rules capture the applied research, informed by clinical expertise, that has been undertaken over the past two decades. Preliminary validation studies suggest the MAP possesses acceptable validity for key diagnostic decisions, including determination of polarity and depressive subtype, and the presence or absence of the principal anxiety disorders. The MAP provides a rich set of information to help the practitioner derive a broad formulation and so shape a management plan in conjunction with broad treatment guidelines. The program will be rolled out over the next 6 months as a formal evaluative tool for wide assessment and application by general practitioners, and subsequently to assist a broader range of health practitioners.