Depression Screening Acceptance Among Perinatal Medicaid Patients in Los Angeles County

Background: Perinatal depression impacts 1in 5 women. The impact of perinatal depression on the mother, infant and family is well documented. Efforts to address and screen for depression is the first step in providing support and treatment.

Objective: Train Medicaid prenatal care staff and providers to screen all perinatal patients

Methods: Two hour depression trainings were held in two Medicaid prenatal clinics. Trainings included PHQ9 to be administered each trimester and postpartum. Participants included physicians, midwives, nurses, nursing aids, PA's, clinical educators and medical assistants. 90% of clinic staff participated. Information and resources for referral were provided. Patients receiving prenatal care completed a survey assessing their attitudes to having their health provider address and screen for depression.

Results: 91 women completed the survey: 57 Spanish and 34 English. 96% (54/56) Spanish respondents and 94% (32/34) English respondents said they thought it was helpful their provider asked about depression, 85% (29/34) of English speakers and 95% (53/56) of Spanish speakers were comfortable talking about their mental health. 94% (32/34) English and 93% (53/57) Spanish speakers stated the PHQ-9 were not hard to understand.100% ( 34/34) English respondents and 96% ( 54/56) Spanish had their results explained to them. Conclusion: Training perinatal providers to treat and screen for depression among the highest risk patients- Medicaid, is well received by Spanish and English speaking patients. Depression screening each trimester, assures early diagnosis and support for the mother and newborn.