The Article in Brief
Diagnostic Accuracy of Spanish Language Depression-Screening Instruments
Daniel S. Reuland, and colleagues
Background Because of differences in language and culture, research based mainly on studies in English-speaking populations may not be applicable to non-English-speaking populations. This study systematically reviewed past research summarizing the evidence on diagnostic accuracy of depression-screening instruments for Spanish-speaking populations in primary care settings.
What This Study Found The study found fair evidence to support the use of 5 commonly used instruments to accurately screen for depression in Spanish-speaking patients.
Implications
- There is limited evidence that directly guides primary care-based depression-screening for Spanish speakers, a large and rapidly-growing segment of the US population.
- The study found important gaps in knowledge. In particular, no evidence was found to directly support the accuracy of ultrashort screening instruments in Spanish. This is an important topic for future research.