Article June 1, 1997

Caring for Depression in Primary Care: Defining and Illustrating the Policy Context

Kenneth B. Wells, M.D., M.P.H.

J Clin Psychiatry 1997;58(suppl 1):24-27

Article Abstract

Depression is a socially important condition that is often undertreated. This article reviews datafrom the Medical Outcomes Study illustrating the policy importance of depression, highlighting styleof treatment under prepaid managed or fee-for-service care and strategies to improve the cost-effectivenessand efficiency of care.