Gambling Harm Screening Tool: information for health professionals and community workers

Gambling harm can have serious impacts on individuals, families, and communities. The Gambling Harm Screening Tool helps health professionals spot patients at risk of gambling harm or those already negatively affected. Developed by the Fairfield Health Alliance, a collaboration between SWSPHN, SWSLHD, and Fairfield City Council, this tool provides a structured way to assess patients’ needs and guide them toward appropriate support or referral services.

About the tool

The Gambling Harm Screening Tool addresses the growing need for early intervention. Research shows that early identification of gambling behaviours can prevent more serious issues. These include financial stress, mental health challenges, and strained relationships.

The tool is designed to identify individuals who experience gambling harm either as gamblers or ‘affected others’. The screening tool consists of two parts. The first part of the tool is designed for individuals who gamble and is based on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), a validated measure used to assess the severity of gambling behaviours and related harms. The second part is the Concerned Others Gambling Screen (COGS), which helps identify people affected by someone else’s gambling.

Health professionals, like GPs, nurses, and allied health workers, can easily integrate this tool into routine patient assessments. This is especially useful in communities with higher rates of gambling.

How to use the Gambling Harm Screening Tool

The tool features a set of questions that identify gambling behaviours, risk factors, and the level of harm. It is simple to use and can be added to regular health assessments. If patients or their families raise concerns, the tool can quickly address them.

Using the Gambling Harm Screening Tool

Watch a step-by-step demonstration of the Gambling Harm Screening Tool. This video explains how to complete the screening with a patient, interpret the results, discuss next steps and identify suitable support and referral pathways.

Recognising gambling harm

Learn how gambling harm can affect a patient’s mental health, finances, relationships, work and social wellbeing. This video outlines common signs of harm and explains when health professionals should consider asking patients about gambling.

Talking with patients about gambling harm

Learn how to start respectful, non-judgemental conversations about gambling harm. This video provides practical guidance on culturally responsive communication, responding when a patient is not ready to talk and connecting them with appropriate support.

Next steps for health professionals and community workers

After using the Gambling Harm Screening Tool, consult available resources and referral pathways. These will help you find the best action plan for your patient.

By using the tool, health professionals can help patients access the right support at the right time, preventing further harm and promoting healthier outcomes. 

For more information on the project and the development of this tool, visit the Fairfield City Health Alliance Gambling Working Group page.