Perinatal depression screening in a public health women, infants, children program: Feasibility and acceptability

Background: Women's mental health during the perinatal period is critically important; however best practices for screening efficiently using valid and reliable instruments in public health clinics are not available. The aim of this study is to explore the feasibility and acceptability of use of a database registry to collect data on mood disorders and co-occurring health problems from low-income pregnant and postpartum women in a racially and ethnically diverse public health clinic as well as to determine the prevalence of mood disorders and associated factors in this population.

Methods: During December 2012 we conducted focus groups using a semi-structured interview guide with public health clinic staff (n=25). All interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to analyze all focus group data.

Results: We found four main themes related to the barriers and facilitators of implementing a universal electronic depression screen in a public health clinic. The main themes include: 1) literacy and the need for interactive multilingual programs 2) need for linkages with a network of outside services 3) training and capacity building of staff to screen women for depression 4) potential for an enhanced technology based screening process. The majority of participants identified the multiple barriers to universal depression screening in a public health clinic, but at the same time found merits in practice of screening low-income women for depression.

Conclusion: Factors for facilitating the institution of a universal systematic depression screen in a public health clinic have been identified.