Identifying and caring for depressed patients: healthcare organizations try new approaches

Depression is one of the most common and most expensive illnesses facing our society. Yet mounting evidence suggests that patients suffering from depression are seriously undertreated. To better control costs and improve patient outcomes, healthcare organizations are rolling out new depression initiatives as part of their long-term strategic quality plans. The most effective treatment models focus on educating primary care practitioners to recognize the many--and often subtle--symptoms of depression and involving behavioral health specialists, when needed.