Major depression is one of the most common mental health disorders, affecting more than 16 million American adults each year. Like screenings for other illnesses, screenings for depression should be a routine part of healthcare, as it can co-occur with and complicate other conditions (Source: mhanational.org). BCBSRI supports and encourages the use of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) for the screening of depression in primary care settings. Screening all patients allows for a discussion around treatment options which can prevent worsening of symptoms or the need for more intensive care in the future.

BCBSRI offers the following resources and programs for members: