Reform Priorities: Quality of Care
When people with severe mental illness (SMI) receive high quality care, they have better treatment adherence and better outcomes. Not only is TAC committed to ensuring people with SMI receive necessary treatment, but that the treatment received is appropriate for their needs and of the highest quality.
Mental health workforce shortages
Almost 4 in 10 Americans live in areas with a shortage of psychologists, counselors, and social workers. It is nearly impossible for providers to deliver quality care when they are understaffed and overworked.
When providers have overwhelming caseloads, they often find themselves with minimal time to dedicate to each patient. These time constraints can make providers unable to devote the necessary time to addressing each patient’s individual needs, leaving patients to feel as if their provider does not prioritize their well-being.
These workforce shortages can also lead to mistakes with lasting consequences. Positive relationships with care providers can be a critical factor in treatment adherence for people with SMI. When providers are friendly, respectful, willing to engage in discussions about treatment, open to addressing concerns, and provide clear explanations about medications, patients are more likely to adhere to treatment. This is especially important because better treatment adherence is associated with fewer relapses, hospitalizations, and suicide attempts.
Join the movement
Help ensure people with SMI are given access to quality care. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of people with SMI.
Trailblazing discoveries: Explore recent research on quality care
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