An adverse medical event is a devastating experience for providers

Clinicians and staff come to work every day to provide the best care for their patients. When things go wrong, they are not well trained to deal with the aftermath of these events and can be left feeling isolated. The fear of litigation discourages communication with patients, families, and colleagues, and the involved care providers are expected to return to their work routine care as if the incident had no emotional impact.

Peer support can help

A trained peer who has had the same experience can help validate the feelings of his or her colleague, as well serve as an ongoing “check-in” point and/or as assess the need for additional help. Support is offered, but never imposed and communications are kept confidential.

The Betsy Lehman Center is working with hospitals and health systems across the state to establish peer support programs tailored to their unique needs. The pilot program offers onsite training, implementation support, and a learning community to share accomplishments and strategies for overcoming barriers.