What does the Rapid Alcohol Problems Screen (RAPS4) assess?

The Rapid Alcohol Problems Screen (RAPS4) is specifically designed to evaluate the possibility of alcohol dependence within the past year. It is a brief, clinically useful tool that helps identify individuals who may be experiencing problems related to their alcohol consumption, focusing on recent patterns of use and related issues. The assessment uses a set of questions that help determine whether an individual meets certain criteria indicative of alcohol dependence, thus allowing for early identification and intervention.

By concentrating on the previous year, the RAPS4 provides a relevant snapshot of an individual's alcohol use and potential issues, distinguishing it from tools that assess lifetime drug use severity, family history of substance abuse, or the broader social impact of alcohol use.