Laura Farrelly, Director, Emergency and Urgent Care, Interim Director, Mental Health and Addictions (left) and Anthony Diaz, Registered Nurse and Interim Mental Health and Addictions Nurse Educator.
Niagara Health team members now have centralized access to a wide range of mental health and addictions supports with the opening of the new Mental Health and Addictions Resource Centre at the St. Catharines hospital.
The space, located inside the Mental Health Unit, will serve as a hub for education and guidance, improving access to information and support for mental health and addiction patients.
“The centre offers continuous opportunities for professional development, training and access to educational resources,” says Anthony Diaz, Registered Nurse and Interim Mental Health and Addictions Nurse Educator. “This will allow staff to enhance their skills, stay up-to-date on latest practices and improve patient care.”The resource centre will provide staff access to relevant up-to-date information on mental health and addiction services in the community. The space features a small library, computer and seating area, allowing team members to explore educational materials in one centralized location.
Mental Health Family and Community Partners were consulted to ensure that a well-rounded selection of educational materials and community resources were included in the learning centre.
The learning centre also serves as a space for collaboration, knowledge sharing and interdisciplinary learning, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, especially for new staff joining the program.
“Having a well-trained and knowledgeable healthcare team directly translates to quality care for patients,” says Diaz. “Staff members who have access to ongoing education and resources are equipped to deliver evidence-based treatments, provide accurate information, and respond effectively to patient needs.”
“Opening the Mental Health and Addictions Resource Learning Centre marks a significant step towards promoting a culture of learning,” says Laura Farrelly, Director, Emergency and Urgent Care, Interim Director, Mental Health and Addictions. “I am proud of this team, whose efforts will provide patients and their families with information they can trust, in a place where it’s needed most.”
