Innovative Strategies in Mental Health Care Delivery during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Roles of Pharmacy Services and Laboratory Diagnostics in Supporting Individuals with Serious Mental Illness

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Raed Ibrahim A Alessa, Atheer Mohammed Alngither, Hajer Ahmad Alaseeri, Rashed Saud Alrushud, Abdulmajed Mohammed H Alhussienan, Farah Adnan Alwohabe, Areej Jamil Haroon Felemban, Othman Nasser Ali Aldriweesh, Badar Mohammad Alrashed, Razan Hassan Amer Alqurashi, Sultan Mohammed Algethami, Rawan Abdulrahman Almowalad, Fayez Raja Almotiri.

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted mental health services, particularly for individuals with serious mental illness (SMI). These disruptions have highlighted the need for innovative strategies to maintain continuity of care while minimizing health risks.


Methods: This review analyzes the adaptations in community mental health care during the pandemic, focusing on the roles of pharmacy and laboratory diagnostics in managing mental health disorders. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to gather evidence on the impacts of telehealth, medication management, and supportive resources in mental health rehabilitation.


Results: Findings indicate that telehealth services have been pivotal in ensuring access to mental health care during the pandemic, allowing for ongoing support despite physical distancing measures. The integration of pharmacy services has facilitated the continuity of psychotropic medications, while laboratory diagnostics have remained critical for monitoring treatment efficacy and potential side effects. Moreover, the involvement of family members and community resources has proven essential in fostering a supportive environment for patients.


Conclusion: The adaptations made in mental health care delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic underscore the importance of flexibility in treatment approaches. Collaboration among healthcare providers, pharmacists, and community resources is vital for enhancing patient outcomes. Future strategies should focus on sustaining these innovations to improve access and quality of care in mental health services.

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