New Depression code checker (HP201)
Purpose:
This protocol will ensure the recording of new depression codes within EMIS is recorded in a way that ensures diagnoses are recorded accurately for data quality and doesn't duplicate existing diagnoses in the record.
These requirements were previously needed for QOF but this was removed ahead of the 2025/26 contract year. When needed for QOF this was a 'base' Handy Protocol. PCIT have moved this to being an optional handy protocol, as the above actions still represent best practice but are no longer needed for QOF.
What does it actually do?
The protocol performs the following functions:
- Flags if a patient is due a depression review and prompts the user to complete it when entering a depression code
- Flags if a new diagnosis of depression has been entered and prompts the user to ensure either appropriate follow up for review is made, or the code "Depressed mood" is used whilst the patient is observed pending diagnosis
- Flags if a previous "Depressed mood" diagnosis has been entered and lets the user know if this is in a time frame that allows coding of a review today to satisfy QOF
- Flags if a previous "Depressed mood" diagnosis has been entered and highlights where this is outside time frames allowing coding of a review for QOF
- Flags if previous different codes for depression have been used or resolved in the past - so the user can consider if it is appropriate to reactivate or unresolve them, negating the need for a QOF review.
What does it look like?
Supporting CQC key areas
Safe
Medicines management
- S2 How are risks to people who use services assessed, and their safety monitored and maintained?
- S4 Do staff have all the information they need to deliver safe care and treatment to people who use services?
- S5 What is the track record on safety?
Effective
Assessing needs and delivering evidence-based treatment
Staff skills and knowledge
- E1 Are people’s needs assessed and care and treatment delivered in line with current legislation, standards and evidence-based guidance to achieve effective outcomes?
- E3 Do all staff have the skills, knowledge and experience to deliver effective care and treatment?
Responsive
Person-centred care
Taking account of the needs of different people
Timely access to care and treatment
- R1 Are services delivered to meet people’s needs?
- R5 Is consent to care and treatment always sought in line with legislation and guidance?
Well-led
- W1 Is there the leadership capacity and capability to deliver high-quality, sustainable care?
- W5 Are there clear and effective processes for managing risks, issues and performance?
- W8 Are there robust systems and processes for learning, continuous improvement and innovation?
System Dependencies:
Relies on using the clinical system to code depression accurately
System Trigger
System Trigger: Add a code from DEPR_COD (eg: Depression)
Run mode: Always run
Enable trigger for: All clinical prescribers
Fitting your practice
It is sensible to get your practice team to review this support article or the historic learning resources around QOF and best practice (eg: NICE NG222) so they understand what the requirements for depression are.
How to get it
Optional Handy Protocols will need to be 'activated' within your clinical system. See our support article for instructions: How to locate Optional Handy Protocols and Activate these
Support Information
Development Log
VERSION NUMBER 7.0.0
Published 1/4/2023
Release notes: Updated significantly to take account of previous episodes of depression, previous resolved episodes of depression, handle depressed mood and also code those who can be reviewed within the correct window.
Release notes: Updated significantly to take account of previous episodes of depression, previous resolved episodes of depression, handle depressed mood and also code those who can be reviewed within the correct window.
Communications Log
Introducing our new protocol to help you keep track of depression diagnoses and coding! 🧐 Our clinical team is always monitoring new updates and best practices, and we want to make sure you have the resources you need to stay on top of your game. With our time-limited searches, you can easily see which diagnoses you still need to review and which ones you may have missed. This protocol is designed to support you in meeting the QOF requirements for depression reviews and avoid coding errors that can impact your performance. We'll be rolling this out to all subscribers, if you want to be prioritised let us know by submitting a support ticket and we'll prioritize your site. #depressionreview #codingprotocols #QOFsupport