Summary
In this episode, Kwadwo interviews Amy Coupal, the CEO of Ontario Caregivers Organization (OCO), about the challenges faced by caregivers and the importance of supporting them in healthcare settings. Amy shares her personal experiences as a caregiver and highlights the variability in caregivers' experiences, from being recognized and included in care decisions to feeling isolated and having to constantly prove their value. She emphasizes the benefits of having caregivers involved in patient care, including improved outcomes for patients and healthcare providers. Amy discusses OCO's role in supporting caregivers through their helpline, webinars, coaching, and counseling services. She also emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to identify and include caregivers as part of the care team and connect them with appropriate support. Amy envisions a future where every caregiver is aware of OCO and has access to the support they need, and where caregivers have a voice in decision-making processes.
Takeaways
Caregivers' experiences vary, with some being recognized and included in care decisions while others are not. Inconsistency in caregiver recognition and inclusion is a challenge that needs to be addressed.
Having caregivers involved in patient care leads to better outcomes for patients and healthcare providers. Caregivers provide valuable information and support, offloading the workload of healthcare professionals.
Supporting caregivers is crucial to prevent burnout and ensure their well-being. This includes providing practical support, such as respite care, and creating caregiver-friendly workplaces.
Healthcare providers should identify and include caregivers as part of the care team, recognizing their role and value. Referral pathways and connecting caregivers with appropriate support are essential.
OCO aims to support caregivers through their helpline, webinars, coaching, and counseling services. They also work with healthcare partners to implement leading practices for caregiver recognition and support.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:04 Challenges Faced by Caregivers
04:37 Benefits of Having Caregivers
06:48 Importance of Caregivers in Healthcare
08:42 The Impact of the Pandemic on Caregivers
13:09 Supporting Caregivers in Healthcare Settings
14:27 Supporting Caregivers through OCO
16:34 Supporting Caregivers in Acute Care Settings
19:06 Promoting the Difference Between Caregivers and Visitors
20:18 Referral Pathways and Connecting Caregivers with Support
22:13 Implementing Leading Practices for Caregivers
23:13 The Importance of Supporting Caregivers
25:10 The Role of Caregivers as Holders of History
26:34 Supporting Caregivers in the Workplace
27:38 The Need for Respite for Caregivers
29:12 Supporting Caregivers through OCO's Programs
32:40 The Vision for OCO
40:07 Connecting with OCO
45:12 Conclusion
Empowering Caregivers & Navigating Healthcare Challenges with Amy Coupal