title: [Is the MiniScan a useful psychiatric intervention? A pilot study of the incremental validity of a computerised classification system].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Psychiatric classification based on clinical judgement is not very reliable. Reliability can be increased by the use of standardised interviews. Maximum standardisation of the classification process can both improve reliability and affect treatment.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To determine the effect that the use of a highly standardised and automated classification procedure (MiniScan) can have on the length of stay in hospital and on the course of symptoms.
  
  
  METHODS
  Participants were allocated to a test group and a control group. The test group was classified via the MiniScan, the control group on the basis of clinical judgement. Length of hospital stay and symptom course were determined.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The use of the MiniScan had no effect on the length of hospital stay, but seemed to play a role in symptom reduction.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  There are indications that the use of the MiniScan contributes to symptom reduction.
authors.affiliation: GGZ Centraal, locatie Veldwijk, Ermelo.
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Damhuis
authors.forename: H J G M
authors.initials: HJ
authors.lastname: van Megen
authors.forename: C F W
authors.initials: CF
authors.lastname: Peeters
authors.forename: M G
authors.initials: MG
authors.lastname: Vollema
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D038801:International Classification of Diseases; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000145:classification* / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011594:Psychometrics / Q000592:standards*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012720:Severity of Illness Index