CVI Begins Phase II in Development of a Computer-Based Screening Tool for Depression in Cardiac Patients

Clinical depression is commonly associated with cardiovascular disease. “More than one-third of cardiac patients have significant symptoms that detract from their quality of life and impeded a speedy recovery,” according to Grant R. Grissom, Ph.D., President and CEO of Polaris Health Directions. Dr. Grissom is Principal Investigator for an NIH-sponsored study, working on developing a computer-based screening tool to detect depression and anxiety in cardiac patients.

In 2002, CVI participated in the successful Phase I pilot study, and began work on Phase II development of the “Outcomes Management Systems for Depression in Cardiac Patients” study in late 2004.

While in the physician’s office, patients work through a computer-bases survey consisting of multiple questions regarding the patient’s health and well-being as well as assessing for potential problems such as Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and Suicidality. Through this survey, many patients are becoming aware of potential problems they may be having with depression or anxiety in association with their cardiac conditions.

CVI is one of five sites around the nation currently participating in the study, which also include: California Pacific Medical Center: Golden Gate Cardiology and Cardiology Associates of Marin and San Francisco, in Northern California; Lenox Hill Hospital in New York and Einstein Health Network here in Philadelphia.

“We are finding throughout our involvement in each phase of this project just how important a survey of this nature can be,” said Phyllis Page, CVI Associate Director of Research and Education. “Information suggests that cardiac patients who are depressed or anxious are at an increased risk for heart attack and other complications than those who are experiencing no symptoms of depression. We hope that by using this tool to assess depression and anxiety in cardiac patients, we can aid in improving the quality of patient care.”

Dr. Grissom concluded, “Until now there has been no time-efficient assessment process that cardiologists could use to identify patients at increased risk, and determine which of them would benefit from treatment for depression. Our project will meet this need. It will lead to improved quality of life and possible improved cardiac prognosis for the hundreds of thousands of patients suffering from depression. We are delighted to have CVI as a key partner in this important work.”