Which assessment screens for signs of depression in patients?

• A. Therapy
• B. Depression Screening
• C. Entrapment Risks
• D. CMS Policy Regulations

Answer: (B)

Depression screening uses brief, validated tools to identify depressive symptoms so a clinician can pursue further evaluation and care. This is the best choice because it focuses on detecting potential depression in a quick, standardized way, which is essential in older adults who may present with somatic complaints or function changes rather than mood complaints. Common screening instruments like PHQ-2/PHQ-9 or the Geriatric Depression Scale ask about mood, anhedonia, sleep, energy, and concentration, providing a score that flags when a more thorough assessment is needed. If the screen is positive, you’d follow with a full diagnostic assessment and safety evaluation, then arrange appropriate treatment or referrals. The other options don’t fit as screening tools: therapy is a treatment, not a screening method; entrapment risks aren’t a standard depression screening instrument; CMS policy regulations cover compliance and billing, not mood screening.