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Addressing depression in obstetrics/gynecology practice
Sarah Hudson Scholle1, Roger F Haskett, Barbara H Hanusa
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, USA. schollesh@msx.upmc.edu
General Hospital Psychiatry
|April 5, 2003
Summary
Obstetrics/gynecology (OB/GYN) practices can effectively screen for and manage depression. A care management intervention showed high patient satisfaction and led to mental health appointments for many women.
Area of Science:
- Women's Health
- Mental Health Services
- Primary Care Integration
Background:
- Depression care in primary care settings is established, yet OB/GYN practices are underutilized for mental health interventions.
- Integrating mental health screening and management into OB/GYN care can reach a significant patient population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of implementing a depression screening and care management intervention in diverse OB/GYN settings.
- To evaluate patient satisfaction and initial outcomes of the intervention.
Main Methods:
- Screening for depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) in three OB/GYN practice types.
- Providing education and referral assistance via a dedicated depression care manager for positive screens.
- Tracking patient participation, satisfaction, and follow-up mental health appointments.
Main Results:
- Depression prevalence varied across practice types, with the hospital clinic showing the highest rate (20.2%).
- 72 women participated in the care management intervention, reporting high satisfaction.
- 31.9% of participants kept or scheduled a mental health appointment within one month.
Conclusions:
- Depression interventions developed for primary care are adaptable to OB/GYN settings.
- Further modifications are needed to enhance care coordination between OB/GYN, general medical, and mental health providers.