A recent initiative at a major epilepsy center has successfully increased the rate of anxiety and depression screenings among patients, addressing a critical need in comprehensive epilepsy care.
Implementation Strategy
The center developed a strategic approach using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation-Behavior framework, integrating electronic health record tools and activating support staff to administer electronic screeners during patient check-in processes.
Results and Challenges
After five months, screening rates surged to 29.2% from pre-implementation levels of 12.6% and an initial 6.28%, with younger and white patients more likely to participate. However, variability among staff and difficulties in maintaining consistency during virtual visits posed ongoing challenges.
Inferences:
• Younger and white patients showed higher engagement with the screening process.
• Support staff displayed higher adherence to screening protocols compared to temporary staff.
• Transitioning to virtual visits during the pandemic impacted the maintenance of screening rates.
The implemented strategy demonstrates a viable path for epilepsy centers aiming to enhance mental health screening adherence. Addressing disparities in patient demographics and staff engagement could further optimize screening effectiveness, ensuring comprehensive care for all epilepsy patients.
This article has been prepared with the assistance of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author.
