summary We aimed to find out whether the use of measuring instruments at the initial assessment of a psychiatric patient can enhance the value of a psychiatric examination performed by experienced clinicians. The possible 'added value' of measuring instruments is considered in relation to screening, diagnosis, the assessment of the severity of the psychopathology and the increased availability of relevant data. Although measuring instruments can never replace a psychiatric examination conducted by an experienced clinician, they can be an important aid in the initial assessment.