A Systematic Review of Depression Treatments in Primary Care for Latino Adults

Objective: A systematic literature review of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) assessing depression treatments in primary care for Latinos is conducted. The authors rate the methodological quality of studies, examine cultural and linguistic adaptations, summarize clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness findings, and draw conclusions for improving depression care among this diverse population. Method: Electronic bibliographic databases, Web sites, and manual searches are used to identify nine peer-reviewed articles covering four RCTs. Results: Across trials, collaborative care models were more effective than usual care in reducing depression and improving functioning and accessibility to guideline-congruent care. Conclusion: The use of evidence-based treatments in primary care seems to be an effective and cost-effective strategy to reduce mental health care disparities among Latinos served in primary care.