PHQ-2 Depression Screening Calculator
Screen for depression with the PHQ-2 questionnaire, score results, and view likelihood ratios and positive predictive values.
What Is the PHQ-2?
The Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2) is a two-item depression screen used in primary care. It asks about loss of interest or pleasure and depressed mood over the past two weeks. Each item scores 0 to 3 by frequency, for a total range of 0 to 6.
Positive Screen Cutoff
A total score of 3 or higher is the standard positive cutoff. Positive screens warrant clinical follow-up, often with the full PHQ-9 or a diagnostic interview. Scores below 3 are generally considered negative screens in routine primary care workflows.
Likelihood Ratios and Predictive Values
This calculator displays positive predictive values (PPV) and likelihood ratios (LR) for major depressive disorder and any depressive disorder at each total score, based on pooled primary care validation data. Higher scores carry higher PPV and LR, reflecting stronger evidence of depression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the frequency options mean?
Not at all scores 0, several days scores 1, more than half the days scores 2, and nearly every day scores 3 for each PHQ-2 question.
When is follow-up recommended?
A total score of 3 or higher should prompt further evaluation. This tool flags positive screens automatically at that cutoff.
What is the difference between MDD and any disorder PPV?
Major depressive disorder PPV reflects likelihood of meeting criteria for major depression. Any depressive disorder PPV includes other depressive syndromes detected in validation studies.
Does PHQ-2 diagnose depression?
No. PHQ-2 is a screening tool. Diagnosis requires clinical assessment and may include the PHQ-9 or structured interview.
What is a likelihood ratio?
Likelihood ratio quantifies how much a test result changes the odds of disease. Values above 1 increase probability; values below 1 decrease it.
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