The 9-Question Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is a diagnostic tool to screen adult patients for depression. It is a part of the multiple-choice Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) self-screening tool for mental health disorders. The PHQ and PHQ-9 consist of questions with standardized multiple-choice answers. If depression is detected from the answers given to the PHQ-9, the severity of the condition can also be established.
The PHQ-9 is also known informally as the “9-item depression scale.”
PHQ-9 Questions and Responses
The nine questions on the PHQ-9 are related to common depression symptoms, such as having little interest or pleasure in doing things. The patient can choose one of four answers—0, 1, 2, or 3. A higher number indicates a more severe symptom.
A clinician adds up the total score on a completed PHQ-9 to gauge the presence of depression and its severity.
PHQ-9 in Electronic Healthcare Systems
Many electronic health record systems incorporate the PHQ and the PHQ-9, allowing the patient to answer the questions electronically, and then it is imported into the system for scoring, tracking, and follow-up care. In some EHRs, PHQ-9 data is entered by a physician so real-time follow-up questions can be asked. The data analysis capabilities of the EHR system are used to detect trends in a patient’s treatment history.
How TempDev Can Help With the PHQ-9
TempDev's team of NextGen consultants, developers, and trainers support your needs whether you're looking to implement, switch, or even upgrade your current EHR system. From dashboards and revenue cycle consulting to automation and workflow redesign, TempDev offers the tools you need to make the most of your NextGen EHR system, with top tips and tricks that will ensure your success now and in the future.
You can better support your patients' needs with TempDev's NextGen dashboards, templates, and reports. Our team is here to help you design, organize, and implement the whole system and offer tips and guidance based on industry best practices.
Contact us here or by calling us at 888.TEMP.DEV to assist with ensuring the PHQ-9 is being used appropriately and scores are being captured in your documentation and quality initiatives.
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