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Integrated Care for drug users: Principles and practice

ANNEX 4D

Examples of tools currently used for assessment

From the results of the survey of tools currently used for assessment in Scotland (Rome 2002, Type 2/3), a comparison was made between Type A tools (common tool where identified primarily use is assessment) and Type C tools (common tool where identified primary use is not assessment) and against the published research literature. Two of the tools identified in the mapping exercise do not appear in any published or unpublished studies, the SMR 24 and the CCDA. Information about SMR24 was provided by ISD and about CCDA by the Glasgow City Council Social Work Department. The information was used to create standalone profiles. Where comparisons are being made between the published research literature and the survey results, this is presented in parallel columns.

All information which has been collated from the results of the survey is presented in shaded boxes.

A digest of tools used for assessment will be produced in October 2002 and will be available online at www.drugmisuse.isdscotland.org.eiu/eiu.htm

THE RICKTER SCALE

Background
The Rickter scale is a non-paper based tool (a colourful plastic board) that allows clients to explore their circumstances, identify priority areas for support and interventions. This tool is different from the others previously described because the client (with the support of a worker) completes it, so it is a form of self-assessment. The structure enables clients to explore possibilities, set goals and contribute to their own action plans. Evaluation of the Rickter scale suggests that it positively encourages interaction between the client and the worker.

A bank of questions is available including personal social development, key skills, drugs and alcohol issues, preparation for work and community safety.

Where did you find out about this tool

Commissioners of Service 75%
Word of Mouth 16.7%
In-house staff training 8.3%

How long have you used this tool

Mean 12 Months
Standard Deviation 7.3

Origin

Original Format 91.7%
Modified for agency's use 8.3%

Comparative Information

Published Research Literature

Survey Results (n=12)

Application

   

Primary Use

Self Assessment

Assessment 75%
Evaluation 41.7%

Secondary Use

Evaluation

Evaluation 41.7%
Audit 16.7%
Assessment 16.7%
Screening 8.3%
Research 8.3%

Client Groups

This tool has been used by projects funded by the New Futures Fund, which aims to support vulnerable groups (including recovering substance misusers) into employment, training and education.

Adult 83%
Adolescent 50%
Women 41.7%
Ethnic Groups 33.3%
Prisoners 25%

How often is this tool completed with each client

No information

3 Monthly 50%
Initial & End 16.7%
Ongoing 16.7%
Monthly 8.3%
As Required 8.3%

Administrative Issues

   

Guidelines/Manual required

No information

Yes 91.7%
No Information 8.3%

Approximate time to complete

The tool can be customised depending upon its intended use; thus completion time varies depending upon the number of questions selected.

Mean 40 minutes
Standard Deviation 11.1

Time to score

No information

Mean 12.9 minutes
Standard Deviation 7.2

Scoring by

   

Validation: Rickter has not been formally validated. However, Scottish Enterprise has commissioned a research consultant to examine the utility of Rickter within the New Futures Fund initiative. Further, there are plans to undertake a validation study of Rickter in the future.

Training requirements

None

Mean 1.3 day

Users Opinion & Comment

 

Positive features

Relative Score 55.2%

Good evaluation data
Can be used for all clients
Supports fuller assessment of clients needs
Records the clients views / opinions

Concerns

Relative Score 17.7%

Can look like a toy. Some clients feel insulted
Only records clients view on day of use
Work is progressing for the data input to be easier

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