Prenatal Depression Screening (PND-E)

Why it matters

Prenatal Depression Screening (PND-E) is a HEDIS^® Electronic Clinical Data Systems (ECDS) measure. Depression screening during pregnancy is recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The screening should be done at least once during the perinatal period and again postpartum. Depression and anxiety rank among the most prevalent complications during pregnancy, even more commonplace than diabetes and high blood pressure — two complications that are regularly screened for by doctors.

Yet, the mental state of expecting women often goes unaddressed by most healthcare practitioners. A mental health evaluation is typically not included in regular prenatal care in numerous countries. Consequently, a significant number of pregnant women who are grappling with anxiety or depression often don't receive the necessary help.

Coding

Codes G8431 and G8510 are related to screening for depression:

• G8431: positive depression screen with a documented follow-up plan
• G8510: negative depression screen where a follow-up plan is not required

Description

The percentage of deliveries in which members were screened for clinical depression while pregnant and, if screened positive, received follow-up referral and care.

Depression screening: the percentage of deliveries in which members were screened for clinical depression during pregnancy using a standardized instrument

Follow-up on positive screen: the percentage of deliveries in which members received follow-up care within 30 days of a positive depression screen finding

Best practices:

• Educate the patient about the importance of follow-up and adherence to treatment recommendations.
• Coordinate care with behavioral health practitioners by sharing progress notes and updates.
• Outreach patients who cancel appointments and assist them with rescheduling as soon as possible.
• Consider telemedicine visits when in-person visits are not available.
• Discuss the importance of follow-up with a mental health provider.
• Develop outreach internal team and/or assign care/case managers to members to ensure members keep follow-up appointments or reschedule missed appointments.
• Set flags if available in electronic health records (EHR) or develop tracking method for patients who may need screenings and follow-up visit.

Helpful phone numbers:

• Mental Health Hotline: 800-273-8255 or text GOT5 to 741741
• Postpartum International Hotline: 800-944-4773
• Text in English: 800-944-4773
• Text en Español: 971-203-7773