Detecting and Managing Adolescent Depression in Primary Care: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial of 100 youth to receive “Enhanced Screening as Usual” which was a basic report listing mental health symptom scores (n=23) or Screening Wizard 2.0, a web-based enhanced screener for adolescents and parents producing an extensive report for providers (n=77). All participants completed self-report assessments and electronic health-record review. Patients receiving Screening Wizard 2.0 were more likely to receive a referral for outpatient psychotherapy (25.7% vs. 18.2%) compared to Enhanced Screening as Usual, odds ratio = 1.56. Satisfaction with Screening Wizard 2.0 was high, with mean scores of 6.5 on a 1-7 scale.