[How frequently are depressive disorders recognized in primary care patients? : A cross-sectional epidemiological study in Germany].

Background: Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a crucial role for guideline-oriented intervention in patients with depression.

Objectives: Based on a diagnostic screening questionnaire, this study investigates the sensitivity of PCPs to recognize patients with depression as well as the factors facilitating recognition and concordant diagnostic decisions.

Method: In a cross-sectional epidemiological study in six regions of Germany, 3563 unselected patients filled in questionnaires on mental and physical complaints and were diagnostically evaluated by their PCP (N = 253).