Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ): Functional Status

The Health Assessment Questionnaire measures how arthritis affects daily activities. Doctors use this self-report tool to track disability and see how well treatment plans improve physical function.

Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) PDF form for assessing patient disability and functional status
HAQ

Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ)

The Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) is a key tool in rheumatology for measuring functional ability. It assesses disability in arthritis patients by tracking difficulty with daily tasks like dressing and walking. It helps doctors monitor disease progression and how well treatments work in clinical settings.

Category

Physical health
Mobility
Movement System

Disease

Assessment
Quality of Life
Clinical Measurement
Rehabilitation

Source

(Bruce & Fries, 2003)

Author Name

Fries, J.F., Spitz, P., Kraines, R.G. & Holman, H.R. (1980)

What is Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ)

The Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) is a trusted tool for measuring physical function in arthritis. It tracks disability levels effectively. This survey looks closely at daily tasks like getting dressed, walking or eating. It covers eight specific categories of functioning to see exactly how well a patient manages their regular routine. Patients rate their ability on a simple scale from zero to three. Zero means no trouble at all while a score of three means they cannot do the task. The form also checks if they need special devices or help from another person to manage daily life properly. Doctors use this widely in rheumatology to see if treatments work. It is quick to fill out and gives a clear picture of patient health. This data helps clinicians make better choices about care plans and medication changes, ensuring patients get the right support they need for the long haul.

HAQ Scoring

The Health Assessment Questionnaire is scored using a standard method that looks at daily functional limits. You will rate items across eight categories, such as dressing and walking, on a scale from 0 for no difficulty to 3 for unable to do. The highest mark in each section sets the category score. If a patient uses devices or needs a hand from others, that score bumps up to a 2. Finally, average the eight category scores to get a Disability Index between 0 and 3. It is a reliable way to track physical function changes in the clinic.

View scoring form

Advantages

Outcome tracking

Measures healthcare intervention results systematically.

Global standards

Meets international clinical assessment requirements.

Health monitoring

Tracks patient condition changes systematically.

Research validity

Strengthens evidence through systematic measurement approaches.

10
Minutes
20
Questions

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Digitise HAQ assessments to track functional status. Automate scoring and monitor patient disability trends over time.

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