Interpretation

Who can interpret the DOC screen?

Although anyone who understands and follows the instructions of the DOC screen can administer it, only a health professional may interpret the results.

How do I interpret the DOC screen scores?

There are two options for score interpretations. A raw score interpretation table is included on the DOC screen form for quick interpretation and triage.

If a patient scores in the intermediate range on any of the sub-components, it is useful to use known demographic and clinical variables to more accurately assess their risk of disease. We have development a regression interpretation model, which can be accessed via the ‘Regression Interpretation’ link on the homepage. Using this model, intermediate-risk scores on any of the subcomponents can be further refined to more accurately predict the risk of disease using screening scores in combination with patient age, sex, total years of education, height and weight.

Administration

Who can administer the DOC screen?

The test may be administered by anyone who understands and follows the instructions, but only a health professional may interpret the results.

Can I repeat the test instructions?

Test instructions may be repeated once, with the exception of the five word delayed recall task. Items tested on (the list of words) may not be repeated after the initial memory registration.

Is any training or certification for the DOC screen?

No training is currently available for the DOC screen.

E-DOC Screen

Is an electronic version of the DOC screen available?

An electronic version of the DOC screen can be accessed via the ‘E-DOC screen’ link on the homepage. However, the E-DOC screen has not been prospectively validated. Future studies will examine the validity of the E-DOC screen.

Permissions

How do I get permission to use the DOC screen?

The DOC Screen is free to use for clinical, educational and research purposes. Please refer to the Permissions section of the website for more information.

Alternate Versions

Are alternate versions of the DOC screen available?

An alternate version of the DOC screen for is available for download on the homepage. This version uses different words within the memory registration, delayed recall task, and abstraction tasks to minimize any learning effects associated with repeated administration.

Scoring Versions

How do I score the DOC screen for a patient with motor/visual impairments?

Patients with motor or visual impairments may have trouble completing the clock drawing task. Complete as much of the screen with the patient as possible, but only fully completed sections can be scored. For example, despite completing the delayed recall and abstraction tasks, if the patient cannot complete the clock drawing task, the cognitive section cannot be scored.

How do I score the DOC screen for a patient who does not speak English fluently?

Currently, the DOC screen is only available to be administered in English. If a patient does not speak English fluently, a family member or caregiver may be able to help provide translation/interpretation. Patients may memorize the delayed recall words in their preferred language, if translation is available.