Key result
CES-D scores ≥22 linked to ~180% higher odds of correct depression detection by general practitioners.
Why the study?
Many older patients with significant depressive symptomatology are not detected by their general practitioners, limiting opportunities for effective treatment.
What factors influence the detection of depression by general practitioners in older primary care patients?
Population
218 patients aged 60 years or over scoring above the CES-D cut-off attending 54 randomly selected GPs in Western Australia
Comparison
Depressed patients detected by GP vs not detected
Design
Cross-sectional analytical study
Authors
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Patient factors linked to GP detection of late-life depression; hypothesis-generating for improved recognition strategies.
Cross-Sectional (n=218)
Yes
What factors influence the detection of depression by general practitioners in older primary care patients?
Odds Ratio: 2.8 (95% CI 1.4–5.6)
GPs correctly identified depression in only 39.9% of older patients with significant depressive symptomatology, highlighting the need for routine screening tools in primary care.
Pfaff et al. (2005) conducted a cross-sectional in Depression (n=218). CES-D scores indicative of major depression (≥22) vs. CES-D scores <22 was evaluated on Correct classification of depression by general practitioner (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.4-5.6). General practitioners correctly identified depression in 39.9% of older patients, with detection more likely in those with CES-D scores ≥22 (OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.4-5.6).
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