Few Australian cardiologists routinely screen patients for depression and most lack the confidence to treat the condition, a survey shows.

The poll of 524 cardiologists reveals only 29% say they “quite often” ask patients if they are feeling down or depressed, despite 2013 Heart Foundation guidance recommending health professionals screen for depression on diagnosis of coronary heart disease — with follow-up screening two-three months after a cardiac event and possibly even annually.

Furthermore, only 3% of cardiologists routinely use a depression screening questionnaire, although 71% say they are willing to do so.

And although, 64% believe they are “moderately confident” in their ability to identify depression, the vast majority (79%) think it is primarily the GP’s responsibility to diagnose depression in patients with cardiovascular disease.