Overview

• Researchers at Wake Forest University implemented an EHR-based strategy to integrate anxiety and depression screening into epilepsy clinic check-in processes.
• Screening rates increased significantly, from 12.6% to 29.2% of clinic visits, highlighting a scalable approach to addressing mental health comorbidities in epilepsy care.
• Younger patients and white patients were more likely to complete the screeners, revealing demographic disparities that will be targeted in future refinements.
• The strategy required minimal effort from support staff, involving just three to four clicks within the EHR system, demonstrating its feasibility and low burden.
• Future efforts will focus on overcoming time constraints, developing shorter screening tools, and enabling pre-visit completion to ensure equitable access for all patients.