Screening

A major perinatal depression identification effort is part of the program.  Universal screening, using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, is administered to all patients who present for prenatal or postpartum care at NorthShore University HealthSystem hospitals.  The scale, available in English, Spanish and other languages, is administered two times: once during pregnancy and once after delivery. Confidential results of all screens are reviewed by a credentialed mental health provider.  Patients who score 12 or above on the scale are called by the provider and an interview is completed by phone.  Appropriate referrals are made or emergency measures taken.  Verbal authorization is requested of the patient to fax results of the screening to her obstetrician.