ABSTRACT
Background: New South Wales (NSW) experienced a significant outbreak of COVID-19 which sent greater Sydney into a 115-day lockdown from June to October 2021. System-wide changes were required as inpatient mental health (MH) units managed outbreaks and new infection control measures were introduced more broadly. The MH impacts of the lockdown itself were also highly publicised with reference to the looming 'shadow pandemic'. Objectives: To discuss the NSW MH response to the COVID-19 pandemic from multiple perspectives and describe the ways in which MH services re-oriented to meet the needs of the population. Explore the lessons learnt and consider the NSW experience within the national and global context. Methods: A team of clinicians who worked together during the peak of the pandemic provide firsthand accounts and discuss case studies from the outbreak. International literature related to the psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic is reviewed. Findings: The health system response during the pandemic required creativity, agility and teamwork. The impacts were not uniform, and responses needed to be tailored to the local context. Some disparities can be understood in terms of pre-existing social vulnerabilities. Advocating for the MH patient population was a cornerstone of the response. Conclusion: The challenges faced during the outbreak provided enormous opportunity to think creatively about the care of people with mental illness. These insights can be taken forward beyond the pandemic. We continue to learn lessons as COVID-19 transitions from pandemic to endemic status.
ABSTRACT
Background: Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) had several significant outbreaks of infection during the COVID-19 pandemic that had substantial impacts on the operation of mental health (MH) services. Objectives: To present the strategies employed to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and to maintain psychiatric services. Methods: Associate Professor De Moore, the Acting Director of Clinical Services for Mental Health across Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD), will discuss his experience in this role, including case studies from the outbreak. Professor Brakoulias, Executive Director of Mental Health for WSLHD, will discuss his experience in this role and give examples of useful strategies. Findings: Communication, adaptability, close liaison with clinical staff, infectious diseases experts and patient flow managers were integral to maintaining psychiatric services across WSLHD. The creation of 'red', 'amber' and 'green' beds needed to be fast and flexible yet required significant consultation and communication to be delivered successfully. The use of protective personal equipment, isolation, testing and swabbing protocols required careful consideration. Conclusion: MH services can be maintained in the context of significant challenges associated with the pandemic. Planning, communication and collaboration are key predictors of success.