Depression screening and management practices at a tertiary care cancer centre

Abstract

Depression in cancer patients reduces patient survival and quality of life, though clinicians may not screen for depression, as part of routine practice. The current study examined depression screening and management behaviour at a tertiary care cancer centre by interviewing 10 oncologists and 10 nurses. The Theory of Planned Behaviour was applied to better understand screening behaviour. Results indicated clinicians screened for depression and managed depression by consulting other health professionals. This study found that depression is screened for and managed appropriately in patients, and certain components of the Theory of Planned Behaviour may be useful in understanding screening behaviour.Key words: cancer, oncology, depression, depression screening, health care provider behaviour, Theory of Planned Behaviour