Implementing Universal Mental Health Screening at a University Student Health Center

Background: Literature shows a mental health crisis among all college students in the United States. Graduate and undergraduate students are at higher risk for developing anxiety and depression related symptoms and disorders as a result of their high stress environment. Local Problem: A mental health care gap was identified in a student health center on a large university campus. This facility did not routinely screen students for anxiety and depression, which did not align with the recommended best practices from the USPSTF. Methods: This quality improvement project was divided into four periods and included pre/post intervention design. Electronic health record chart reviews were conducted pre and post implementation to evaluate screening rates. Staff surveys and interviews were conducted to determine barriers, facilitators, feasibility, usability, and satisfaction with a universal screening protocol. Interventions: An educational information session was conducted to introduce a universal screening protocol and the care gap that existed. A universal screening protocol was implemented for four weeks. Results: Chi Square test found 43% increase in screening rates after the universal screening protocol was implemented (p<.00001). Staff reported overall satisfaction with universal screening protocol after implementation and a majority endorsed a manageable increase in workload and adequate resources for follow up. 90% of staff reported that they would continue routine mental health screening in their patents at least some of the time. Conclusion: Implementing universal mental health screening increased screening rates for anxiety and depression in this population. Further evaluation needed to determine if this approach will identify more positive results.