Referral of Patients with Depression to Mental Health Care by Dutch General Practitioners
Author Information
Author(s): Piek Ellen, van der Meer Klaas, Penninx Brenda WJH, Verhaak Peter FM, Nolen Willem A
Primary Institution: University Medical Center Groningen
Hypothesis
All criteria for referral mentioned in the Dutch guideline would independently increase the likelihood of referral.
Conclusion
The majority of depressed patients were referred to mental health care, and general practitioners consider guideline criteria in their referral decisions.
Supporting Evidence
- 58% of depressed patients were referred to mental health care.
- Younger patients and those with suicidal tendencies were referred more often.
- Patients who had used two or more antidepressants were more often referred to secondary care.
Takeaway
Most doctors send patients with depression to see mental health specialists, especially if the patients really need help or have been feeling sad for a long time.
Methodology
Data from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety was used, including logistic regression to analyze referral criteria.
Potential Biases
GPs were unaware of the psychiatric diagnosis, which may reduce bias in referral decisions.
Limitations
Results may not be generalizable to countries with different referral systems, and some guideline criteria were not assessed.
Participant Demographics
Average age of participants was 45.5 years, with 241 females and 103 males.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.000
Confidence Interval
95% CI for odds ratio 1.49 - 4.87
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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