PHQ-2
Patient Health Questionnaire-2
A 2-item depression screening tool comprising the first two questions of the PHQ-9.
At a Glance
- Population
- Adults (primary care and general populations)
- Number of Items
- 2 items
- Instrument Type
- PROM
- Digital Administration Availability
- Suitable for self-report electronic administration
- Automated Scoring Availability
- Yes — simple sum score, 0–6
- Suitable Use Settings
- Primary care depression screening and research
About the Instrument
The PHQ-2 was developed by Kroenke, Spitzer and Williams as a very brief initial screen for depressed mood and anhedonia, intended to be followed by the full PHQ-9 when positive.
What It Measures
Frequency of depressed mood and loss of interest/pleasure over the past two weeks.
Digital Administration
Delivered electronically through the PROMinsight platform as part of a digital patient-reported outcomes workflow.
Scoring / Reporting
Two items are each scored 0–3 and summed to a 0–6 total; a score of 3 or more is a commonly used threshold to prompt further assessment (e.g. with the PHQ-9).
Use in Research / Clinical Care / Clinical Trials
Widely used as a fast first-stage depression screen in primary care and large-scale studies.
Enquire About This Instrument
Interested in using the PHQ-2 in your research, clinical programme or study? Contact PROMinsight to discuss access.
Enquire About This Instrument