Aims
These two studies aimed to (1) develop and validate a novel digital screening tool - the InsideOut Institute Screener (IOI‑S) - designed to identify individuals at high risk of or in the early stages of an eating disorder, and (2) test the reliability of its clinician‑delivered, face‑to‑face format in primary healthcare settings. Together, the studies demonstrate that the IOI‑S is both psychometrically robust and clinically versatile, with potential to streamline early detection and strengthen referral pathways across digital and in‑person contexts.

Background
Eating disorders are associated with substantial morbidity and among the highest mortality rates of any mental disorder, yet early detection remains critically low. Many individuals are not identified in primary care, and existing screening tools can feel confronting or are poorly suited to digital environments. To address this gap, the IOI‑S was co‑designed with people with lived experience to provide a gentle, inclusive, and accessible approach to assessing risk. The first study established the IOI‑S as a valid and scalable digital screener capable of identifying early‑stage or high‑risk presentations across diverse age groups and genders. The second study demonstrated that the tool performs equally well when delivered face‑to‑face by clinicians, confirming its adaptability for real‑world clinical practice. Together, these findings position the IOI‑S as a promising tool to enhance early identification and timely intervention for eating disorders across multiple healthcare settings.

Access the IOI-Screener here https://insideoutinstitute.org.au/screener/