Emrich M, McAleavey AA, Peskin M, Walsh JA, Sombrotto LB, Difede J. Bringing mental health to the frontlines: A proactive team-based model for healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2023;
85:120-125. [PMID:
37864866 DOI:
10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.09.012]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
A novel team-based service was developed at the beginning of the pandemic in which sixty liaisons were assigned to provide proactive, tailored psychological support for healthcare workers (HCWs) across three of NewYork-Presbyterian's Weill Cornell affiliated hospitals.
METHOD
The program took the proactive approach of bringing mental health awareness to every department and major division that interfaced with COVID-19 patients. Virtual and in-person team-based "town hall" meetings were offered to provide psychoeducation, facilitate discussion, foster adaptive coping and social cohesion, and identify employees who would benefit from further individualized support.
RESULTS
The program's success was reflected in the number of town halls (1000+) and attendees (6000+) and in qualitative feedback from departments who requested ongoing services.
CONCLUSIONS
This article presents the development, implementation, challenges, and opportunities in designing a team-based support model for HCWs. This model may be useful for organizations that seek to develop similar programs.
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