Evaluating an Online Intervention to Improve Provider Management of Prenatal Depression: A Randomized Controlled...

Prenatal depression is associated with numerous deleterious maternal and child health outcomes. Providers play a significant role in managing (i.e., identifying and treating or referring to care for) prenatal depression. We conducted a randomized controlled trial to test the effects of a brief online training on self-reported provider management practices related to prenatal depression.

Providers (i.e., physicians, nurses, mental health specialists, and public health educators) were randomized into intervention (i.e., online training) or waitlist control arms. The online training covered guidelines and evidence-based practices related to managing prenatal depression. Changes in providers' knowledge, attitudes, and self-reported practices were assessed by the Management of Maternal Depression Inventory at baseline (T1), 6 weeks after baseline (T2), and 12 weeks after baseline (T3).

A total of 108 providers from Colorado and Virginia participated in the trial. Over the three time periods, repeated measures analysis of variance revealed Time × Group relative improvements for the intervention group with respect to satisfaction with working with mental health services, F(1,97) = 10.89, p = .001, partial η² = 0.10, and increased self-reported screening, counseling, and referral for prenatal depression, F(1,97) = 6.25, p = .014, partial η² = 0.06. A similar improving pattern was observed for self-efficacy, F(1,99) = 2.48, p = .13, partial η² = .02.

Findings from our study suggest a brief online training may enhance the likelihood of providers screening, treating, and/or referring at-risk patients for follow-up care for prenatal depression.