Beyond Clinical Care: The Role of Pediatric Psychology in Supporting Postpartum Depression Screening in Primary Care.

Abstract

Maternal health is a critical component of optimal child health and development. Consequently, the American Academy of Pediatrics added postpartum depression (PPD) screening to their psychosocial screening guidelines in 2017. The Healthy Mothers, Healthy Children Project (HMHCP) was an interprofessional initiative aimed at preparing for, then implementing and maintaining pediatrician-completed PPD screening at 1-month well visits in a pediatric primary care clinic. Roles of pediatric psychology and rates of PPD screening were examined. Pediatric psychologists actively participated as leaders and collaborators in a variety of non-clinical roles from HMHCP preparation through maintenance. The clinic achieved high and continuously improving PPD screening rates following HMHCP implementation. Importantly, PPD screening rates were equitable across race and gender. The current study outlines feasible non-clinical roles that pediatric psychologists can fulfill in support of routine PPD screening within pediatric primary care. It also highlights associated benefits and outcomes for the clinic, providers, and patients.