Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026
14:43
A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
Obstetric care provider engagement in a perinatal depression screening program
J Jo Kim1, Laura M La Porte, Marci G Adams
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem and Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 2650 Ridge Avenue, Suite 1507, Evanston, IL 60201, USA.
Archives of Women'S Mental Health
|March 12, 2009
Summary
Obstetric providers believe perinatal depression screening is effective but overestimate their screening rates. Active involvement in screening processes and integration with routine care improve screening rates.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Mental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Perinatal depression affects many women, necessitating effective screening protocols.
- Current screening rates for perinatal depression vary significantly among obstetric care providers.
- Understanding provider attitudes is crucial for improving screening implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess obstetric care provider attitudes towards perinatal depression screening.
- To identify factors influencing variable screening rates in obstetric settings.
- To explore provider perceptions of screening effectiveness and personal screening practices.
Main Methods:
- Structured interviews using open-ended and rating scale questions were conducted.
- Qualitative content analysis was employed to analyze provider responses.
- Screening rates were compared between providers with active versus indirect involvement in the screening process.
Main Results:
- A high percentage of providers (86%) viewed screening as effective for identifying at-risk women.
- Most providers (95%) overestimated their own screening rates, with 67% believing they achieved universal screening.
- Providers actively involved in screening demonstrated higher rates (59%) compared to those less involved (37%).
Conclusions:
- Obstetric providers support perinatal depression screening when integrated into a comprehensive program with clear roles for assessment and referral.
- Active provider participation and linking screening to routine obstetric care, like glucose tolerance testing, are associated with increased screening rates.
- Addressing provider overestimation of screening rates and ensuring active involvement are key to enhancing perinatal depression detection.
