Focusing on Suicide Prevention of the Healthcare Workforce within the Zero Suicide Framework: Application of H.O.P.E. Certification and Banner Health Case Study

Body of Abstract: Abstract:

Many healthcare systems have focused on suicide prevention primarily in relation to patient care, often utilizing the Zero Suicide Framework, which offers numerous evidence-based strategies to enhance patient outcomes. However, the well-being of healthcare professionals themselves—who are at heightened risk for suicide due to high job demands, frequent exposure to trauma, and inadequate mental health support—has often been neglected. Recent data showing rising suicide rates among nurses and physicians highlight the urgent need for comprehensive, systemic approaches to address this issue. This case study explores the implementation of the nine practices outlined in the National Guidelines for Workplace Suicide Prevention within a large healthcare organization, Banner Health North Colorado, through the H.O.P.E. Certification. In parallel, Banner Health is also applying the Zero Suicide framework to enhance patient care.

Objective:

To assess how the integration of the Zero Suicide framework and H.O.P.E. Certification can effectively enhance mental health support, reduce suicide risk among healthcare professionals, and improve organizational well-being, using Banner Health’s application of these strategies as a case study.

Methodology:

This study employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both quantitative data analysis and qualitative assessments to evaluate the impact of these interventions. Data were collected through employee surveys, focus groups, mental health screenings, and post-implementation feedback sessions. Key metrics assessed included familiarity with mental health resources, participation in peer support programs, engagement in mental health training, and changes in workplace culture and support structures. The Banner Health case study provides a comprehensive overview of the practical application of these strategies, documenting both successes and areas for further improvement.

Results:

The implementation of the Zero Suicide framework and H.O.P.E. Certification at Banner Health yielded several positive outcomes:

Increased Familiarity with Mental Health Resources: Post-intervention surveys indicated a significant increase in staff awareness and familiarity with mental health resources, including Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), onsite counseling, peer support programs like TALK2Me, and crisis intervention tools such as the 988 Lifeline. For instance, familiarity with onsite counseling increased from 50% in the pre-survey to 80% in the post-survey.

Enhanced Peer Support Systems: The expansion of the TALK2Me peer support program resulted in over 45 trained peer supporters across various facilities, providing immediate emotional support for staff and fostering a culture of openness and mutual assistance.

Addressing Psychosocial Hazards: Targeted efforts to address psychosocial hazards, such as financial pressures, work-life balance, and client demands, were implemented through town hall meetings and support group sessions. These initiatives led to better alignment of resources and more effective mental health support for staff.

Comprehensive Training Programs: A stratified training plan, including QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) training for leaders and team members, was launched to enhance skills in empathetic listening, crisis de-escalation, and mental health support. This training aimed to empower staff with the tools needed to effectively support colleagues and create a safer work environment.

Improved Screening and Support Tools: New screening tools, developed in partnership with the Employee Assistance and Wellbeing Programs, were deployed to proactively identify team members needing support. This initiative included multiple screening options, from comprehensive online tools to in-person assessments at wellness fairs, ensuring broad engagement and accessibility.

Conclusion:
In summary, this case study highlights the critical need for healthcare systems that are implementing the Zero Suicide Framework to also address the wellbeing of their workforce. The encouraging preliminary results from the Banner Health case study and the H.O.P.E. Certification demonstrate the effectiveness of a year-long implementation of the nine practices from the National Guidelines for Workplace Suicide Prevention. This integrated approach not only supports patient care but also provides a comprehensive model for suicide prevention among healthcare professionals, a high-risk group. By prioritizing the mental health of their staff and incorporating systematic, evidence-based interventions, healthcare organizations can foster safer, more supportive environments, reduce suicide risks, and enhance long-term workforce wellbeing. Future research should explore the scalability and adaptability of these strategies to ensure their effectiveness across various healthcare settings.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify factors contributing to burnout and suicide risk among healthcare professionals, especially those involved in delivering care for people experiencing mental health emergencies.
• Describe the National Guidelines for Workplace Suicide Prevention and the H.O.P.E. Certification and apply these frameworks to develop mental health initiatives tailored to the needs of healthcare workers.
• Explain the integration of the Zero Suicide Framework with the H.O.P.E. Certification and connect this dual approach to create a comprehensive, sustainable suicide prevention model within healthcare systems.