Living and Working Through Pandemics, Disasters, and Other Traumatic Events

Abstract

Abstract This chapter highlights the enormous stresses that COVID-19 has imposed on the health care workforce. Burnout is an occupational hazard that has reached new critical levels for health care professionals. Disaster preparedness, response, and recovery-related research, theories, and models have evolved over the past several decades. In addition to new and complex challenges the pandemic has created, it also creates opportunity for further research to provide guidance for optimal models of support for health care professionals. Understanding the mental-health needs of the health care workforce is essential both to recovery and to prepare for future pandemics, disasters, and other traumatic events. Oncology and palliative social workers are poised to take a leadership role in assisting organizations in recognizing and addressing inequities, compassion fatigue, staff burnout, and institutional resilience strategies.