The Journal of family practice
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Recent studies in primary care settings indicate that African Americans face health disparities in the treatment of major depression. We reviewed the literature to find evidence of specific patient, physician, and practice-setting factors related to such barriers. ⋯ Research indicates that African Americans who have depression may be frequently under diagnosed and inadequately managed in primary care as a result of patient, physician, and treatment-setting factors. Our systematic review can assist family physicians in understanding how to overcome such barriers to the diagnosis and treatment of depressive disorders in African American patients.