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Improving Assessment of and Response to Depression...

Improving Assessment of and Response to Depression in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Care

Overview

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of death in the United States, affecting over 16 million individuals. Previous work has demonstrated that COPD patients experience symptoms of depression that exceed the prevalence of depression among patients with other chronic conditions. This project aims to pilot test behavioral economic-based approaches to protocolize depression screening and mental health service referrals of patients with COPD at high risk for depression. Conducted at three pulmonary centers within the University of Pennsylvania Health System (UPHS), the goal of this project is to develop a formative evaluation, using semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, to assess the barriers to assessing patients with COPD for depression and referring appropriate patients for treatment. The researchers will then refine and test the implementation of a protocolized depression screening combined with clinician-directed nudges to increase the assessment of depression and referral for mental health services to appropriate patients. The project will deliver a novel approach of implementing behavioral economic approaches to improve the assessment and referral of mental health services to high-risk patients with COPD.

Sponsors

  • Penn ALACRITY P50 Pilot Program

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