Implementation of a Comprehensive Clinical Toolkit for Postpartum Depression Screening: Breaking Barriers in Women\u27s Health Care

A quality improvement initiative to increase screening of postpartum women to detect depression and appropriately refer women screening positive for follow-up care was implemented in an obstetrics and gynecology practice. Physicians in the practice (n = 13) completed an educational module on use and benefits of a toolkit and showed a significant post test increase. Review of patient medical charts found a significant increase in screening rate in an 8-week intervention cycle. Through means of establishing a protocol for appropriate referral for follow-up, the goal of referring 50% of women who screened positive was exceeded