HealthCare NZ wellbeing service supports all frontline health workers

The response to the community’s latest COVID-19 cases now includes HealthCare NZ’s Frontline Support, a dedicated mental health and wellbeing service to support all frontline healthcare workers nationwide.

General Manager Mental Health & Wellbeing, Sean Versteegh, says the Frontline Support service is available for anyone working in either the public or private health sectors, to help them manage the stress and demands their work and roles may place upon them.

“The latest announcement of three cases in Northland and Auckland, and the ongoing uncertainty of COVID-19, have put pressure on health professionals and care workers in the region and across the country.”

“Therefore, it is important that our essential workers can access high quality mental health and wellbeing support when they need it. Our integrated presence nationwide means we are well placed to serve in this role.”

Mr Versteegh says that people at the front line are incredibly resilient but have sustained a high workload under stressful circumstances for months now. This intensifies further whenever positive cases are confirmed.

“This service supports people to maintain their own wellbeing and mental health, and avoid burnout as they help others. Frontline Support is free and is delivered through phone and video-conferencing technology, meaning people can book an appointment with a highly trained and registered psychologist at a time that’s convenient to them.

“When someone calls the line, they will be scheduled an appointment with a specialist where they can discuss any aspect of their wellbeing or mental health in confidence. It may be to talk about how they are feeling or their situation, get advice on services and support available, or find out other measures they can take to keep themselves well and maintain good mental health.”

HealthCare NZ’s Frontline Support is open Monday to Friday between 9am and 7pm, and is also open to Fire and Emergency NZ staff and Maori Wardens.

“We encourage anyone on the health or community care frontline to use the service if they need to do so. They can easily book a confidential appointment with one of our experienced specialists by calling: 0800 820 080 or by emailing hcnz.wellbeing@healthcarenz.co.nz.

“Together we are taking care of New Zealanders, our frontline health workers and uniting against COVID-19 – He waka eke noa”, says Mr Versteegh.

About HealthCare New Zealand

With over 7,500 specialists and highly-trained professionals, HealthCare New Zealand is our country’s largest community healthcare company. What’s more, we’re based all over the country, so we’re able to provide support just about anywhere. Our comprehensive range of services includes in-home and community-based health, rehabilitation, nursing, mental health and disability support. Right now, we’re supporting over 18,000 clients and have been providing healthcare services to Kiwis for over 30 years.