We’ve been working with our system partners to develop an innovative way to provide Mental Health Act assessments despite the restrictions of the current Coronavirus situation, creating a safer and more efficient assessment of people in crisis.
When a person needs an urgent assessment of their mental health, then ordinarily we draw together a team of specialist staff, plus an approved mental health professional (AMHP) from Surrey County Council and at least two of our doctors. This means that, in complex cases, there might be as many as five professionals working on the assessment in one of the dedicated suites at our inpatient facilities. Given the current restrictions on travel and the need for social distancing, it has been difficult to bring the required health professionals together. The need for PPE to be worn during the assessment can also be upsetting to someone already in distress.
Our solution to these issues was to make as much of the process as possible work remotely. Our Digital department provided iPads and training, and now assessments can be safely made with only two members of staff physically present. Doctors and AMHPs who are self-isolating can provide their expertise via video link, and can even conduct assessments across the Trust’s dedicated facilities without having to spend time travelling between them.
Most importantly, early evidence shows that the people being assessed welcome this change as it reduces the number of staff in the room, helping to keep stress levels down, and lowering infection risk.
We are now advising other Trusts around the country on how we made this work. We are also considering how we might extend the benefits of this scheme further, and what might be worth retaining after the pandemic passes.
If you would like to find out more about this innovative approach, please contact communications@sabp.nhs.uk