Name of the Procedure:

Screening for Depression
Common name: Depression Screening
Medical term: Screening for depression with a documented positive result and follow-up plan (HCPCS Code G8431)

Summary

A depression screening is a quick evaluation used to determine whether a person shows signs of depression. If the screening results are positive, meaning signs of depression are detected, a follow-up plan is documented and discussed with the patient.

Purpose

Conditions Addressed:

• Depression
• Mood disorders

Goals/Outcomes:

• Early identification of depressive symptoms
• Initiation of appropriate treatment or intervention
• Improvement in mental health and overall well-being

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions Warranting Procedure:

• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Change in sleep patterns
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Difficulty concentrating

Patient Criteria:

• Patients with chronic medical conditions
• Patients experiencing significant life changes or stressors
• Routine part of primary care or annual health check-ups

Preparation

No specific preparation is required for the patient.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Screening: A healthcare provider administers a standardized questionnaire or verbal interview to assess symptoms of depression.
2. Positive Result: If the screening indicates possible depression, the healthcare provider will document the result.
3. Follow-Up Plan: A detailed follow-up plan is discussed and documented. This may include scheduling an appointment with a mental health professional, starting medication, or recommending therapy.

Duration

The screening typically takes about 10-20 minutes.

Setting

Primarily performed in various healthcare settings, including:

• Primary care offices
• Outpatient clinics
• Mental health centers

Personnel

• Primary care physician or nurse practitioner
• Mental health professionals (e.g., psychologists, psychiatrists)

Risks and Complications

Risks:

• Emotional discomfort from discussing symptoms

Complications:

• Misinterpretation of questions leading to false positives or negatives
• Stigma associated with mental health diagnoses

Benefits

• Early detection and management of depression
• Improved mental and physical well-being
• Customized follow-up care plan
• Reduced risk of severe depression episodes

Recovery

• There is no physical recovery needed from the screening itself.
• Patients follow the documented follow-up plan, which may include therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes.

Alternatives

Other Options:

• Self-assessment tools available online
• Informal discussions with family/friends
• Direct consultation with a mental health specialist without an initial screening

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Professional guidance, accurate diagnosis, immediate follow-up planning
• Cons: Initial emotional discomfort, time spent during the visit

Patient Experience

During the screening, patients may feel a range of emotions from relief to discomfort. These feelings are normal, and healthcare providers strive to make the experience as supportive and comfortable as possible. After the screening, patients follow the agreed-upon follow-up plan, which often includes pain management or comfort measures, especially if starting therapy or medications.