# Case-finding for depression in primary care (CAIRO): a multicentre, cross-sectional study in England

## TL;DR

The study found that over a quarter of patients in primary care in England showed possible signs of depression during an automated check-in process.

## Contribution

This study introduces a new method for identifying depression in primary care using an automated check-in system.

## Key findings

- 28.3% of participants responded positively to depression screening questions.
- Females and those from more deprived areas showed higher positive responses.
- The study highlights a potential unmet need for depression support in primary care.

## Abstract

To examine the number of patients screening positive for depression, while self-completing an automated check-in screen prior to a general practice consultation.

A descriptive cross-sectional study.

10 general practices in the West Midlands, England. Recruitment commenced in March 2023 and concluded in June 2023.

All patients aged 18 years and over, self-completing an automated check-in screen for any general practice prebooked appointment, were invited to participate during a 3-week recruitment period.

The number of patients screening positive for depression using the Whooley case finding research questions was the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcome measures included: demographic and (general practice level) deprivation differences in completion responses.

73.5% (n=3666) of patients self-completing an automated check-in screen participated in the CAse-fInding foR depressiOn in primary care (CAIRO) study, (61.1% (n=2239) female, mean age 55.0 years (18–96 years, SD=18.5)).

28.3% (n=1039) of participants provided a positive response to at least one of the two Whooley research questions (31.2% female and 23.8% male). Significantly more positive responses were obtained from females, those aged between 35 years and 49 years and those from more deprived practices.

Over a quarter of CAIRO participants provided a positive response to at least one of the two Whooley questions, suggesting possible unmet need in the population studied. A follow-up study could investigate whether responses provided at the point of check-in are raised and addressed in the subsequent consultation.