A Semi-Systematic Review of Patient Journey and Management of Depression in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This semi-systematic review aimed to quantitatively map and identify data gaps in the patient journey touchpoints for depression in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia namely disease prevalence, awareness, screening, diagnosis, treatment, adherence and management. A structured search was conducted using the predefined inclusion criteria to identify relevant studies from Jan 2010–Dec 2019. To address the data gaps, an unstructured literature search and anecdotal data were also included. Data obtained were synthesized and simple or weighted mean was calculated. Of the 2,025 articles retrieved from structured and unstructured search, eight were included for final analyses. Two anecdotal data sources recommended by the local experts were also included. Most of the articles included were cross-sectional in design. The overall prevalence of depression was estimated at 18.2%. Synthesized evidence indicated that 41.8% of the patients had awareness, 44.9% received treatment and 40.7% adhered to treatment. According to anecdotal evidence, the rate of screening and diagnosis of depression was 35.0% and 55.0%, respectively, of which 60.0% of the patients achieved symptom remission. Lack of data in patient journey touchpoints for depression in Saudi Arabia highlight the need for more evidence based studies. This might improve patient care and support national level decision-making.