Abstract W P316: Improved Detection and Treatment of Post-Stroke Depression Utilizing Patient Health Questionaire-9 (PHQ-9) Screening over Standard Methods

Background and Purpose: Post-stroke depression is common, with an estimated prevalence of 30-35%. This study assessed the null hypothesis that PHQ-9 screening is equivalent to standard care (suicide screening + provider assessment) in detection of post-stroke depression. A secondary outcome was to assess the optimal timing and setting to perform PHQ-9 screening after stroke. Methods: PHQ-9 screenings and modified Rankin Scales were conducted in a prospective study population (n=49) at three time points - inpatient within 48 hours of admission for stroke, 7 days after discharge at the outpatient stroke clinic, and by telephone at 90 days. Actionable treatment of depression defined as psychiatry referral and/or initiation of antidepressants were recorded. A retrospective control group (n=125), prior to initiation of the PHQ-9, was reviewed to determine baseline rates for treatment of depression. Results: PHQ-9 screening increased actionable treatment of depression over standard methods from 5.6% to 18.4% (p...