Depression treatment preferences of VA primary care patients

The authors identified veterans' depression treatment preferences and explored relationships between preferences, process of care, and clinical outcomes. Patients entering a collaborative depression intervention trial in primary care completed an assessment of treatment preferences. Medical record review was used to identify treatments offered and received over a 12-month period. Of 314 patients, 32% preferred antidepressants; 19%, individual counseling; 18%, anti-depressants plus counseling; 7%, group counseling; and 25%, "watchful waiting." Although the treatment that was offered was associated with treatment preferences, being offered preferred treatment was not associated with receiving treatment or with changes in depression severity or satisfaction over time.