Review: screening for depression reduces persistent depression.

Main results 14 trials (7739 patients) met the inclusion criteria. 8 trials evaluated screening and feedback of results; 3 trials evaluated screening, feedback, and general or specific treatment advice to providers; and 3 trials evaluated screening, feedback, treatment advice, and assistance to practices to develop systematic means of improving treatment and follow up.Of 7 trials that reported rates of diagnosis, 4 showed greater recognition of depression with screening than with usual care. Of 9 trials that reported rates of treatment, 3 showed greater rates with screening than with usual care. Of 10 trials that reported patient outcomes, 5 showed more improvement in outcomes with screening than with usual care. 7 trials could be combined by meta-analysis. Persistent depression was decreased in patients who received screening. When 1 strongly positive trial causing heterogeneity was removed from the meta-analysis, the reduction in persistent depression remained. Interventions that incorporated systematic means of improving treatment and follow up showed the greatest effect. Conclusion Screening for depression in adults and feedback to health care providers reduces the risk for persistent depression.