AHRQ Innovations Exchange | Social Worker-Led, Culturally Tailored Therapy and Support Improve Treatment Adherence, Depression-Related Symptoms, and Patient Satisfaction in Low-Income Hispanics With Diabetes

full-text:
AHRQ Innovations Exchange Social Worker-Led, Culturally Tailored Therapy and Support Improve Treatment Adherence, Depression-Related Symptoms, and Patient Satisfaction in Low-Income Hispanics With Diabetes

Summary

Between 2005 and 2007, two safety net clinics offered a socioculturally tailored program to treat depression in low-income Hispanic patients with diabetes. The program provided patients with medication treatment and/or an 8-week, culturally tailored psychotherapy program led by trained, bilingual social workers. Social workers also regularly followed up with patients by phone to promote continued adherence to therapy and monitor depression-related symptoms, while navigators supported patients in meeting other medical and social service needs. The program improved adherence to antidepressant medication, reduced depression-related symptoms, and increased patient satisfaction with their care. Based on its success, depression screening is now required for all diabetes care providers and the Los Angeles Department of Health Services has hired social workers for its diabetes program in several clinics.