Improving depression care for Veterans during and after COVID-19
Leveraging COVID-19 to modernize depression care for VA primary care populations
This study is looking at how to better spot and treat depression in Veterans, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic changed how care is delivered, and it involves nurses checking in with Veterans and doctors offering support based on their needs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914642 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the detection and treatment of depression among Veterans, particularly in the context of disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It involves primary care nurses conducting annual screenings and clinicians providing follow-up care as needed. The study aims to understand how the pandemic has affected depression care quality and to gather feedback from Veterans and healthcare providers to improve hybrid care models that combine virtual and in-person services.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans who have experienced symptoms of depression, especially those who may have been affected by the disruptions in care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of depression or who are not Veterans may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved access to effective depression care for Veterans, ultimately reducing the risk of suicide and enhancing overall mental health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that integrating mental health services into primary care can improve outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective in addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leung, Lucinda B — VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Leung, Lucinda B
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.