Strengthening the Early Identification and Treatment of Depression

Tackling a significant quality-of-care issue, Aetna is now offering a new program that attempts to improve the delivery of mental health care services by strengthening the identification and treatment of depression at the primary care physician (PCP) level. The Aetna Depression Management program is designed to speed physicians' diagnoses of depression and appropriate treatment to help improve patients' recovery.

A first for the health care system, Aetna Depression Management integrates medical and behavioral health care where patients first enter the health care system — in the PCP’s office. This approach makes it possible to diagnose depression early and to help doctors better manage health problems related to depression. Early intervention has the potential to greatly improve medical outcomes and patients' quality of life.

Aetna Depression Management Pilot Program

Aetna's innovative depression management program is now available to PCPs nationwide and is based on the clinically proven Three Component Model (3CM™) program, which was developed by the MacArthur Initiative on Depression and Primary Care at Dartmouth College and Duke University. The model uses an empirically validated, standardized depression screening tool and outcome measurement tools. Other depression management program features:

• PCPs have access to a network of psychiatrists who are on call throughout the day.
• Aetna case managers track cases and follow up with patients.
• PCPs are reimbursed for screening and assessing patients for depression.
• Training is provided for PCPs and their office staffs.
• Member communication materials are distributed to PCPs for use with patients.

Aetna Depression Management represents a new step toward reshaping the health care system by improving the delivery of mental health care services for our members. Additional information about behavioral health services is available for Aetna's constituents:

Members:

• Behavioral Health Member page
• The Reawakening Center
• EAP Website

Health Care Professionals:

• Depression Management page
• Behavioral Health page

Employers:

• Behavioral Health Employer page

Press Releases:

• Aetna Teams With Primary Care Physicians To Identify And Treat Depression Early
• Aetna And The Aetna Foundation Award $2.25 Million In Grants To Address End-of-life Care And Depression
• Aetna Disability Claims Analysis Shows Connection Between Depression And Increased Disability Durations