Patient Perspectives on Major Depressive Disorder Care to Inform Patient-Centered Approaches

The study reported in this abstract was funded by an educational grant from Takeda Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc. Objective: To better understand patients’ experiences and perceptions of their major depressive disorder (MDD) care. Methods: We designed a 21-item survey to capture patient perceptions of their MDD symptoms, medications, and involvement in shared decision-making. The survey was reviewed by clinical experts and administered during the month of August 2022 via email through a national patient organization. Responders received a modest incentive. The survey was closed after 200 responses were received. Results: Responders predominantly identified as white (86%), female (65%) with a mean age of 43 years. Eighty percent were taking medication(s) for MDD, including atypical antidepressants (34%), SSRIs (28%), SNRIs (11%), or other (6%). Half were satisfied (34%) or very satisfied (17%) with their MDD medication. Patients with higher levels of involvement in their MDD treatment decisions were more likely to report satisfaction with their treatment. Side effects that bothered patients most were weight gain (25%), anxiety (24%), trouble sleeping (21%) and fatigue/sedation (20%). Residual symptoms reported by patients included depressed mood (43%), anhedonia (39%) and trouble sleeping/excessive sleeping (37%), among others. Barriers patients perceived to achieving remission were finding the right provider (41%), inadequate response to medication/breakthrough symptoms (32%), and medication side effects (24%). Patients desired more time to discuss the pros/cons of treatment options (33%), treatment goals and preferences (31%), and lifestyle recommendations (26%). Conclusions: These data provide insight into patient experiences with MDD care. The results were shared in an accredited continuing medical education activity to highlight opportunities for clinicians to enhance patient-centered MDD care.