An incentive approach

Next year, some doctors and clinics will get bonuses based on how well depressed patients score on a questionnaire. The goal is to help patients achieve a score of five or less within six to 12 months. (Sample questionnaire.)

"OVER THE LAST TWO WEEKS, HOW OFTEN HAVE YOU BEEN BOTHERED BY ANY OF THE FOLLOWING PROBLEMS?"

Not at all = 0, Several days = 1, More than half the days = 2, Nearly every day = 3

1. Little interest or pleasure in doing things.

2. Feeling down, depressed or hopeless.

3. Trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much.

4. Feeling tired or having little energy.

6. Feeling bad about yourself.

7. Trouble concentrating.

8. Moving or speaking unusually slowly, or being fidgety or restless.

9. Thoughts that you would be better off dead, or of hurting yourself.