HSE supporting staff ‘with time and space’ to reflect on impact of work

Schwartz Rounds focus on staff experience, in particular recognising the emotional and relational challenges of providing care. The Point of Care Foundation is already supporting 168 organisations in the UK to run Schwartz Rounds, including more than 100 NHS Trusts.

The collaboration follows the successful implementation at two sites over the last year and half: Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services in Dublin and University Hospital Galway. Initial evaluation from the two sites showed that 86 per cent of staff gained knowledge that will help them care for patients, which mirrors similar validated evaluations from the UK. Data from more than 5,000 respondents in 2015 showed that 85 per cent of staff feel better able to care for patients after attending Schwartz Rounds. In 2013, the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) commissioned King’s College London to undertake a major national evaluation of Rounds, which is due to published later this year. The new partnership will initially see ten organisations receiving training and support, with scope for more to follow in future.

Dr Philip Crowley, National Director Quality Improvement Division, who has championed the development of Schwartz Rounds in Ireland, said: “Schwartz Rounds provide a unique and valuable opportunity for staff to reflect on the emotional impact of their work. Since the Schwartz Rounds journey began last year, we have all been moved by the power of our stories to unite us in that common shared experience of caring and the impact it has on us as individuals.

“Storytelling is such an important part of Irish history and culture, and we have seen this mirrored in how quickly staff have embraced Rounds. This is not only essential to support staff to continue to do their work safely and well but international research tells us that in looking after our workforce we also take a further step in improving patient outcomes and experience.

“The HSE are delighted that we are now working in collaboration with the Point of Care Foundation to support more organisations establish Schwartz Rounds. As part of the agreement, the Foundation will provide training for mentors and facilitators, online resources and ongoing support.”

Ms Jocelyn Cornwell, Chief Executive of The Point of Care Foundation, said: “I am delighted that we are partnering with HSE; we have seen from the pilot that staff in Ireland face similar highs and lows on a daily basis to staff in the UK and that Schwartz Rounds provide an opportunity for safe reflective practices regardless of location.

“Our goal at the Foundation is to ensure that all staff working in health and care have the chance to reflect on their challenging work; this partnership is a significant step towards achieving that goal.”

For further information visit: bit.ly/SchwartzRoundsIreland