Using the PHQ-9 self-rating scale to assess depression in primary care

Author/s
Ankita Sahni, Mark Agius
Citation
Issue 5 Winter 2018
CEPiP.2018.1.70-75
Abstract

The PHQ-9 is effective in screening patients for depression as well as monitoring progress in a variety of situations. This includes patients with chronic disease, such as diabetes and coronary heart disease, but care must be taken in interpretation of the PHQ-9 in these situations because of changes in specificity and sensitivity; however, proper interpretation is possible. Using the PHQ-9 after a pre-assessment with the PHQ-2 increases its specificity, as well as preventing under-diagnosis. Although it is not suitable as a stand-alone tool for diagnosis, it is a cost-effective, efficient method of screening patients in primary care.

Keywords: depression, screening, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, primary care

Cite as: Cutting Edge Psychiatry in Practice 2018, 5(1):70-75; https://doi.org/10.65031/jtzj7702

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