Innovative EHR-Based Screening Strategy Boosts Detection of Anxiety and Depression in Epilepsy Patients

A recent study conducted by researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine highlights a significant advancement in the detection of mental health issues among epilepsy patients. By implementing an electronic health record (EHR)-based screening strategy, healthcare providers have substantially increased the rates of screening for anxiety and depression during clinic visits. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Science, demonstrates that integrating simple screening tools into routine patient check-ins, with results directly incorporated into the EHR system, led to an increase in screening from 12.6% to 29.2%.

Heidi Munger Clary, M.D., M.P.H., an associate professor of neurology, emphasized the importance of this development: "Despite being common in epilepsy, anxiety and depression often go under-recognized and untreated. Leveraging existing clinical staff and EHR features allows us to identify these issues more effectively, leading to better patient management."

Patients with epilepsy are at a two to five times higher risk of experiencing anxiety and depression, underscoring the need for effective screening methods. The study was carried out at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist's Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, where support staff adopted new screening tools during patient check-ins, smoothly integrating results into the clinic's EHR system.

The findings also revealed demographic disparities in screening completion, with younger patients (average age 39.3) more likely to complete the screenings than older patients (average age 43.4). Additionally, white patients showed higher participation rates compared to patients from other racial and ethnic backgrounds. Despite these gaps, Dr. Munger Clary noted that the streamlined process—requiring only three to four clicks by staff—presents a practical approach for epilepsy centers to meet quality standards in mental health detection.

Looking ahead, the researchers suggest that overcoming workflow disruptions and time constraints during screenings is essential. Strategies might include shorter screening tools and encouraging patients to complete assessments before their appointments, ensuring equitable access for all patients.

This innovative approach serves as a promising model for enhancing mental health detection in epilepsy care settings, ultimately aiming to improve overall patient outcomes.

Source: MedicalXpress