Russia Proposes Changes to Depression Care Standard

Dragon Media News Desk

Russia’s Health Ministry has drafted changes to its medical care standard for adults with depression. According to the draft order reviewed by the TASS news agency, the proposal includes follow-up appointments with a psychiatrist, additional specialist consultations and laboratory tests. The draft is not a final approved order.

The proposed list includes consultations with a urologist and tests for HIV, hepatitis and syphilis where appropriate. Their inclusion in the draft does not mean every patient with depression would be required to undergo them.

The list of possible procedures would also expand to include electrical and magnetic brain stimulation, electroconvulsive therapy, acupuncture and biofeedback, as well as plasmapheresis, blood filtration and laser-based procedures. Inclusion in a care standard does not, by itself, establish that a procedure is proven, suitable or routinely recommended for every form of depression.

According to the World Health Organization, treatment for depression includes psychological therapies and medication, depending on the patient’s condition and the severity of symptoms. Decisions about other interventions require an assessment of the individual patient and the available evidence. The final scope of Russia’s proposed changes will become clear only if the order is approved.