2020 ANNUAL REPORT
STORIES
16
INCREASE IN REFERRALS FOR PASTORAL CARE Pegasus Health’s Pastoral Care Programme has been
Support for the GP may be needed with a range of issues
around since 2009. Designed to detect problems at an early
including depression, bereavement, anxiety or organisational
stage and support doctors on an individual basis through
issues. Once contact is made the care is individualised
times of increased stress, burn out or personal problems,
according to level of impairment, career stage, insight and
the programme has proved its worth through Canterbury’s
motivation. GPs are also offered mentoring by one of five
pattern of crisis, change and progression.
doctors in a pastoral care role. Support may involve a visit
The programme offers a combination of peer support counselling and education, covering such areas as
with a review of file notes. A formal practice review may be done in-house by a peer.
prescribing habits and business sustainability. Referrals often come in from nurses, pharmacists and doctors with concerns for their clinical colleagues. It’s a safe environment to share concerns and a step before the involvement of the Medical Council. Dr Caroline Christie is a General Practitioner, Deputy Chair of the Pegasus Health Board and also oversees the Pastoral Care Programme. She says the programme has expectedly seen an increase in referrals during the COVID-19 response. “We are preparing for a further rise of GPs needing support during this ongoing and likely long term response to COVID-19. All our GPs need to look after themselves and their colleagues, their patients and their businesses as well as adapting to the changing environment in healthcare. It is without question, a very challenging time for healthcare workers and the community,” says Caroline.
“ I feel we are well equipped with the robust and proven processes of the Pastoral Care Programme to assist our colleagues through this period.” Dr Caroline Christie Deputy Chair, Pegasus Health Board
