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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

John R. Bowblis, MA¹, Ayse Akincigil, PhD², Saira Jan, PharmD³, and Stephen Crystal, PhD¹. (1) Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 30 College Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, 732-932-8111, jbowblis@ifh.rutgers.edu, (2) School of Social Work, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 536 George Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, (3) Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 160 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854

OBJECTIVES: Antidepressant therapy or psychotherapy is effective in treating depression, yet the rates of treatment are low in many settings and populations. This presentation aims to identify the risk factors for not obtaining treatment, in a privately insured population. METHODS: A retrospective observational study using linked medical and pharmacy claims for services provided between January 2003 and January 2005, from a large health care plan in the Northeast U.S.. Members aged 18 and older were identified who had a new episode of major depression diagnosed by general medical providers or psychiatrists in an outpatient setting (N=5,330). We conducted bivariate chi-squared tests and multivariate logistical regression analysis to determine the predictors of receiving psychotherapy and/or antidepressant therapy within six months of initial diagnosis. RESULTS: 69% received psychotherapy and/or antidepressant drugs in the six month period after initial diagnosis. Those in neighborhoods with median incomes higher than $40,000 were more likely to receive therapy than those in poorer income neighborhoods after controlling for other factors. Those diagnosed by psychiatrist, receiving multiple medications, taking a psychotropic drug, diagnosed with anxiety or of younger ages were more likely to receive therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Mental health care is received by most people with a new diagnosis of depression, but residents of low-income neighborhoods and older members were less likely to receive treatment.

Learning Objectives:

• To understand the risk factors for not obtaining treatment for major depression diagnosed in outpatient setting, in a privately insured population.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered