Population-based depression prevention studies

Our MBHO is exploring study design in prevention of depression. Our current challenge is to identify possible population-based dependent variables - how will we measure success in prevention interventions for an MCO population?

Our brainstorming addressed primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. Possible measures include:

1. Incidence of depression 2. Prevalence of depression 3. Suicide rate 4. Rate of depression treating medication use in the MCO population 5. Total treatment cost (medical and behavioral) per person per year with depression diagnosis 6. Average functioning scale change 7. Average stress scale change

We are soliciting suggestions, comments, criticisms, direction. What are others doing in this arena?

Thanks,

Danny van Leeuwen dannyvanleeuwen@vbh.com

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