Postpartum Depression Screening, Referral, and Follow-Up in Pediatric Primary Care: The HealthySteps Effect

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Postpartum depression (PPD) is estimated to affect up to 20% of new mothers each year. Screening for PPD in the pediatric care setting provides an opportunity for dialogue and referral to treatment, and studies indicate that physician follow up improves maternal outcomes for PPD. HealthySteps for Young Children (HS) is a ZERO TO THREE national initiative supporting integrated pediatric care during the first three years of life. HS embeds an early childhood development specialist, the HealthySteps Specialist (HSS), into the care team. The HSS provides anticipatory guidance and …