Research Center: Cincinnati VA Medical Center- Fort Thomas Division
Location: 1000 South Fort Thomas Avenue, Fort Thomas, KY 41075 
Lead Doctor: Kathleen Chard, Ph.D.
IRB Committee: This study has been reviewed and approved by University of Cincinnati Institutional Review Board

Background

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is prevalent among Veterans. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, about 11-20% of Veterans are diagnosed with PTSD in a year. Symptoms of PTSD may start to appear one month after experiencing a traumatic event. 

Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Scale Interview for DSM-5 (PSSI-5) are the gold-standard tools used to assess the presence and severity of PTSD in an individual. This study aims to find out the reliability of these tools and compare them with the previous PTSD assessment tool (CAPS-IV). 

The study seeks Veterans aged 18 years old and above who are experiencing symptoms of PTSD (diagnosed or suspected). Participants are required to attend up to 7 study visits at the research site for up to 4 months OR remotely from their current location. Participants may get up to $600 for participating in this study. Participation in this study may help active duty personnel and Veterans find more effective ways to assess the presence and severity of PTSD.

Why Participate? 

• You will receive up to $600 for participating in this study.
• You may be helping Veterans who suffer from PTSD.
• You may help in evaluating the effectiveness of assessment tools for PTSD.
• You will be helping to advance medical research.

Your Rights

• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you may withdraw at any time.
• Your records relating to this study and any other information received will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by law.
• Qualified health professionals will monitor your health as it relates to the study.

Who Can Participate?

• Military Veterans who are 18 years old and above.
• Experiencing symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or experienced a traumatic life event.
• Able to attend up to 7 study visits at the research site over approximately 4 months.
• Participants must be able to attend up to 7 study visits over approximately 4 months.  You can choose to participate in the study visits in-person at the research site or remotely from your current location. If you choose to participate remotely, please make sure you have access to an electronic device (i.e., smartphone, laptop, etc.) with internet connection.