Multimorbidity and depression treatment

Abstract

Objectives: We compare treatment for depression among individuals with multiple chronic physical conditions to those with single chronic physical condition, after controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, access to care and the number of outpatient visits.

Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design, we analyzed data on 1,376 adults age above 21 years, with depression and at least one chronic physical condition in the following clusters: cardiometabolic (diabetes or heart disease or hypertension), respiratory (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma) and musculoskeletal (arthritis or osteoporosis) from the 2007 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey for depression treatment.

Results: Overall, 56.2% used antidepressants, 21.4% had psychotherapy and 22.5% reported no depression treatment. After adjusting for factors, there were no statistically significant differences in the likelihood of type of depression treatment.

Conclusion: Individuals with multiple conditions are as likely as those with single condition to report treatment for depression perhaps due to increased contact with the health care system. Our findings suggest that competing demands due to multiple chronic conditions may not affect depression treatment.