For Providers > Depression Screening
The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends that every adult be screened for depression annually
It is estimated that 20% of women and 10% of men will experience depression in their lifetime
Some studies suggest that 70% of PCP visits are for symptoms caused by psychological illnesses
Results of Neighborhoods chart review re: depression screening showed 44% of providers screened for depression in 2002
The World Health Organization reports that depression is the one of the leading causes of disability in developed countries
Some studies suggest that 70% of PCP visits are for symptoms caused by psychological illnesses
85-90% of patients with depression can be treated effectively Screening for depression can be done quickly and easily in your office. Here are 2 question you can ask:
In the past two weeks, have you felt down, depressed or hopeless?
In the past two weeks, have you had little interest or pleasure in doing things? If a patient answers yes to either or both of these questions, they may have depression and should have a more in depth evaluation for depression.
These 2 questions can also be:
Easily placed on chart; on a poster in the office:
English, Portugese, Spanish
Given to members to complete while waiting to see MD or the nurse can ask while taking blood pressure
Easily added to standard visit documentation
Used as a first step screen if PCPs plan to treat the depression Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9)
Contains nine questions
Gives more information about degree of depression
More useful if PCP is planning to treat
Can be filled out by patient or in consultation with nurse or MD
Can be used to evaluate improvement
Suggests actions based on score Neighborhood and Beacon Health Strategies are committed to helping PCPs screen for depression and assist with referrals if necessary.
If you have a Neighborhood member who needs to be seen urgently, contact Beacon at 1-800-215-0058. |
All PDFs require the free