Name of the Procedure:

PHQ-9 Remission Assessment for Patients with Initial High Scores

Summary

This procedure involves evaluating the remission status of patients who initially scored higher than nine on the PHQ-9 depression screening but were not assessed for remission after twelve months.

Purpose

The medical conditions or problems it addresses:

• Major Depressive Disorder
• Persistent Depressive Disorder

The goals or expected outcomes of the procedure:

• To ascertain if the patient's depressive symptoms have improved after a year.
• To adjust treatment plans if necessary to better address ongoing depressive symptoms.

Indications

Specific symptoms or conditions that warrant the procedure:

• Initial PHQ-9 score greater than nine indicating moderate to severe depression.
• The patient has not been reassessed for remission within twelve months (+/- 30 days).

Patient criteria or factors that make the procedure appropriate:

• Adults and adolescents with documented depressive symptoms.
• Patients who scored high on the initial PHQ-9 and are nearing or just past the twelve-month mark without a follow-up assessment.

Preparation

Pre-procedure instructions for the patient:

• No specific preparation needed; the patient can proceed with daily activities.
• Ensure the patient is aware of the follow-up appointment and its importance.

Any diagnostic tests or assessments required beforehand:

• Review of initial PHQ-9 score and patient’s medical history.

Procedure Description

Detailed step-by-step explanation of what the procedure involves:

1. The healthcare provider administers the PHQ-9 questionnaire to the patient.
2. The patient completes the questionnaire.
3. The healthcare provider scores the questionnaire.
4. Discussion of results with the patient to determine any necessary changes in the treatment plan.

Tools, equipment, or technology used:

• PHQ-9 questionnaire (paper or electronic form).

Anesthesia or sedation details:

• None required.

Duration

• The procedure typically takes 10-15 minutes.

Setting

• Can be performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, primary care office, or via telehealth.

Personnel

• Primary care physicians, psychiatrists, nurses, or trained mental health professionals.

Risks and Complications

Common and rare risks associated with the procedure:

• Minimal to no health risks; may involve emotional discomfort during self-assessment.

Possible complications and their management:

• Emotional distress: Managed with immediate support and appropriate follow-up care.

Benefits

Expected benefits and how soon they might be realized:

• Identification of remission or ongoing depressive symptoms.
• Improved treatment plans based on updated assessment.
• Benefits are immediate once the assessment is completed and interpreted.

Recovery

Post-procedure care and instructions:

• Continue with the current care plan or adjust based on the results.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as necessary.

Expected recovery time and any restrictions or follow-up appointments:

• No physical recovery time needed; mental health improvements could be assessed over following visits.

Alternatives

Other treatment options available:

• Regular follow-up visits without structured assessments.
• Alternative depression screening tools.
• Clinical evaluations by a mental health professional without formal questionnaires.

Pros and cons of alternatives compared to the described procedure:

• Pros of alternatives: More flexible, can address multiple health issues simultaneously.
• Cons of alternatives: May lack the structured assessment provided by PHQ-9, leading to less targeted treatment adjustments.

Patient Experience

What the patient might feel or experience during and after the procedure:

• Mild emotional discomfort while responding to questions about depressive symptoms.
• Relief or distress based on the assessment results and subsequent discussion with the healthcare provider.

Pain management and comfort measures:

• No physical pain associated.
• Emotional support provided by the healthcare team as needed.