Here are five ways hospitals can support maternal mental health, according to the American Hospital Association:
- Hospitals should incorporate measures to address mental health concerns, such as screening, referrals, medication, education and follow-up appointments.
- Providers should discuss and address mental health concerns with their patients early on to build trust.
- Hospitals should diversify the workforce with a variety of providers such as doulas, social workers, community health workers and psychiatrists.
- Hospitals should train perinatal nurses and providers on mental health conditions to best support their patients.
- Hospitals should establish a referral process to connect their patients with postpartum providers.
At the Becker's Fall Behavioral Health Summit, taking place November 4–5 in Chicago, behavioral health leaders and executives will explore strategies for expanding access to care, integrating services, addressing workforce challenges and leveraging innovation to improve outcomes across the behavioral health continuum. Apply for complimentary registration now.
