Understanding how costs affect mental health care attendance

Economic precarity, costs, and continuity of mental health care

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11138075

This study looks at how the costs of healthcare affect people with depression when it comes to keeping their psychiatric appointments, and it aims to find ways, like using telehealth and reminders, to help more patients show up for their visits and get the care they need.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11138075 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of out-of-pocket healthcare costs on patients' ability to attend psychiatric appointments, particularly for those suffering from depression. It aims to identify factors that lead to missed appointments and explore how clinical features like telehealth and appointment reminders can improve attendance. By analyzing data from over 23,000 patients, the study seeks to develop strategies that enhance continuity of care and reduce disparities in mental health services. The findings could help tailor interventions to support patients in maintaining their mental health treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with depression who may face financial barriers to accessing mental health care.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of depression or those who do not experience financial barriers to care may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved attendance at mental health appointments, ultimately enhancing treatment outcomes for patients with depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing financial barriers and improving appointment adherence can significantly enhance mental health care outcomes.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Affective Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.