The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) is a clinically validated, 9-question screening tool used to identify, monitor, and measure the severity of depression in adolescents and adults. Widely used in primary care and mental health settings, it aligns with DSM-5 criteria for major depressive disorder and helps providers track treatment progress over time.
Screens for Depression Quickly and Accurately
Offers a fast, evidence-based way to identify patients who may be struggling with depressive symptoms.
Monitors Treatment Response
Used over time to assess whether therapy, medication, or other interventions are improving depressive symptoms.
Supports Clinical Decision-Making
Guides diagnosis, treatment planning, and referrals to mental health specialists.
Fulfills Insurance and Quality Metrics
Helps meet documentation standards for depression screening and follow-up required by payers and value-based care programs.
Empowers Patient Communication
Encourages patients to reflect on how depression affects their daily life and initiate honest conversations with providers.
Primary Care and Family Medicine
Administered during annual wellness visits or when patients present with fatigue, sleep issues, or mood changes.
Psychiatry and Psychology Practices
Used in initial assessments and during ongoing therapy or medication management.
Emergency and Urgent Care Settings
Screens for depression and suicide risk in patients with unexplained physical complaints or emotional distress.
Behavioral Health Clinics
Standard part of intake for therapy and psychiatric care.
Telehealth and Digital Therapy Platforms
Adapted for virtual delivery as part of remote mental health screening.
Each question reflects a symptom of depression over the past 2 weeks, such as:
Each item is scored:
Total Score (0–27):
Use Routinely in Primary and Behavioral Care
Incorporate as part of annual screenings or mental health evaluations.
Re-administer Every 2–4 Weeks
Track progress over time during treatment or medication trials.
Flag High Scores Promptly
Follow up immediately on scores indicating moderately severe or severe depression, especially if item 9 is positive (suicidal ideation).
Discuss Results with Empathy
Use PHQ-9 scores to start meaningful conversations and involve the patient in their care plan.
Document in the Medical Record
Store results securely in the EHR for reference, billing, and compliance.
Digital PHQ-9 Forms
Allow patients to complete assessments online or via tablet before visits.
Automatic Scoring and Alerts
Instantly calculate scores and notify providers of high-risk responses.
EHR Integration
Pull PHQ-9 scores into progress notes or encounter summaries.
Track Scores Over Time
Use visual dashboards to display trends in depression severity and treatment outcomes.
Supports Quality Reporting and HEDIS Measures
PHQ-9 data can be used for depression screening and follow-up care metrics.
Meets Mental Health Documentation Standards
Provides objective evidence of diagnosis and treatment planning.
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