Name of the Procedure:

Annual Depression Screening, 15 minutes (G0444)

Common Name(s): Depression screening
Technical/Medical Term(s): G0444

Summary

An annual depression screening is a quick and non-invasive medical evaluation that helps detect signs of depression in patients. The screening typically involves a series of questions aimed at assessing the patient's emotional state and mental well-being.

Purpose

Medical Conditions or Problems:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Other mood disorders

Goals or Expected Outcomes:

• Early detection of depression
• Timely intervention and treatment
• Improved mental health and quality of life

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions:

• Persistent sadness
• Loss of interest in daily activities
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

Patient Criteria:

• Adults and adolescents at risk for depression
• Patients with a history of depression or other mental health conditions
• Individuals experiencing significant life changes or stressors

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• No special preparations required
• Patients may be asked to reflect on their emotional health prior to the appointment

Diagnostic Tests or Assessments:

• None typically required beforehand

Procedure Description

Detailed Steps:

1. The healthcare provider will ask the patient a series of questions from a standardized depression screening tool, such as the PHQ-9 questionnaire.
2. The patient will answer questions related to their mood, interest in activities, sleep patterns, energy levels, and overall mental health.
3. The healthcare provider will review the answers and score the screening tool to determine the patient's risk of depression.

Tools/Equipment/Technology:

• Standardized screening tools (e.g., PHQ-9)
• Pen and paper or digital equivalent

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Not applicable

Duration

Typically takes about 15 minutes.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Primary care office
• Mental health facility

Personnel

• Primary care physician
• Nurse practitioner
• Physician assistant
• Mental health professional

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Minimal to none; psychological discomfort may occur when discussing mental health

Rare Risks:

• None

Possible Complications:

• None; if distress is identified, appropriate mental health support will be provided

Benefits

• Early detection and potential treatment of depression
• Improved patient outcomes and quality of life
• Enhanced patient-provider relationship and communication

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Follow-up appointments if depression is suspected
• Referral to mental health specialists if necessary

Expected Recovery Time:

• Immediate; no physical recovery required

Restrictions or Follow-up:

• None specific unless depression is diagnosed; then follow-up treatments or therapy sessions may be advised

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Comprehensive mental health evaluation
• Psychotherapy or counseling without prior screening
• Support groups and community resources

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Non-invasive, quick, and effective method for early detection
• Cons: May not capture all mental health conditions; relies on patient self-reporting

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• The patient will engage in a confidential conversation with the healthcare provider and answer a series of questions.
• Generally, no pain or physical discomfort involved.

After the Procedure:

• The patient may feel relieved or anxious depending on the results and next steps.
• If signs of depression are identified, patients will receive recommendations for further evaluation or treatment.