Depression Care Standard 33: A validated measure of depression is used at initial assessment and repeated at regular intervals to monitor progress and outcome.
Supporting material for standard 33:
It is important to include a measure of the level of depression using an objective tool at various points throughout the service user's journey of care. This will aid monitoring of the impact of any interventions. The PHQ9 is an example of a tool that can be relevant across the depression pathway.
The frequency of repeating the measure will vary depending on individual circumstances and should occur when changes to treatment are made.
Examples of evidence required to meet standard 33:
- local depression rating scale and guidance on frequency of repeating it
Useful Resources:
- 1. Spitzer RL, Williams JBW, Kroenke K, et al. Patient health questionnaire PHQ9
- 2. Hamilton M. A rating scale for depression. Journal of Neurology and Neurosurgical Psychiatry. 1960;23:56-62
- 3. NICE. Depression: management of depression in primary and secondary care. London:NICE; 2004 NICE clinical guideline 23, pages 74-78
- 4. Scottish Executive. National evaluation of the doing well by people with depression programme. Edinburgh:Scottish Executive; 2006, pages 22, 37, 39, 59, 60, 76, 101, 102, 112, 117 and 118
- 5. Gilbody S, Richards D, Barkham M. Diagnosing depression in primary care using self-completed instruments: UK validation of PHQ-9 and CORE-OM. Br J Gen Pract. 2007;57(541):650-2
- 6. British Medical Association (BMA). Quality and outcomes framework guidance: Depression diagnosis and initial management indicator DEP2, 2006