Frequent Mental Health and Addiction Related Emergency Department Visits: Perspectives from Healthcare Providers

Abstract

Background: The rise in mental health and addiction (MHA)-related emergency department (ED) visits has been recognized as a contributing factor to ED crises and increasing healthcare costs. While prior research has largely centered on patients' perspectives, limited attention has been given to healthcare providers’ (HCPs) insights. This qualitative study specifically explores HCPs’ perceptions of the reasons patients with MHA issues frequently present to EDs.

Methods: HCPs were recruited from ED, and MHA services of the local health authority and community agencies. Data collection involved semi-structured individual interviews. The thematic analysis approach was utilized in data analysis.

Results: Six HCPs from diverse disciplines participated in this qualitative study. Four major themes emerged from the data analysis: (a) social determinants of mental health (housing crisis and financial problems); (b) structural barriers (overstimulation and not a priority in ED, inadequate knowledge and training among HCPs, lack of detox facilities, stigma from HCPs, and shortages of HCPs); (c) suggestions for prevention (more funding/ resources and early childhood education) and (e) HCP’s response to working with patients (making a difference and rewarding).

Implications and lessons learned: The findings indicate the importance of MHA specialty training for HCPs, combined with innovative anti-stigma initiatives. Nurses can play a crucial role in policy development focusing on enhancing MHA services, and ultimately reducing MHA-related emergency visits.