Practice Nurses as Case Managers in a Collaborative Care Model for Managing Depression among Patients with Heart Disease or Diabetes: The D_Tect and TrueBlue Studies in Primary Care

Abstract

A successful feasibility study called D_TECT (Depression Treatment Evaluation Care Team) used a collaborative approach to detect, monitor and treat depression among patients with existing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) or coronary heart disease (CHD) in primary care. It was developed by the Greater Green Triangle Department of Rural Health and conducted in general practices in rural areas. The model mobilised existing resources and funding paths available in general practice, including general practitioners, practice nurses and existing Medicare-funded enhanced primary care items.