Iturralde E et al. – This study investigated the feasibility of standardized screening for depression and assessment of global health and determined the recommended behavioral health follow–up across 3 pediatric subspecialty clinics. The authors concluded that implementation of standardized global health assessment protocol across pediatric subspecialties was feasible and effective. To meet programmatic requirements in pediatric subspecialty clinics, universal behavioral health screening for adolescents and young adults living with chronic disease is needed.

Methods

• A 9–item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ–9) depression and Patient–Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) were completed by patients (N = 109; aged 12–22 years) attending outpatient visits for treatment of diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or cystic fibrosis.
• Patients who were identified as positive on the PHQ–9 received behavioral health assessment and regular phone check–ins on the same day to facilitate necessary follow–up care.

Results

• Depression scores differed according to the type of disease, and patients rated lower global health compared with a previously assessed validation cohort.
• Depression and global health showed significant relation with a few medical outcomes.
• On the PHQ–9, 15% of patients were positive, of whom 50% confirmed attending behavioral health appointments within 6 months of screening.