Caring for the carers: How Sonder supports frontline medical workers
Insights.
In the midst of a global health crisis, the importance of our frontline workers became very clear. They are the backbone of our healthcare system, standing resiliently against an onslaught of challenges that would daunt even the bravest among us.
However, the continuous exposure to traumatic events, high-stress environments, and physical dangers takes an inevitable toll on their mental and physical wellbeing. Research shows that burnout rates among healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and other frontline staff, are alarmingly high. A study published in JAMA Network Open in 2021 found that over 60% of physicians and nurses report experiencing symptoms of burnout.
We know this is a crisis that demands immediate attention, and at Sonder we are committed to providing comprehensive support to these vital individuals.
Burnout within the medical sector
The term 'burnout' might seem an overused cliché, but for healthcare professionals, it is a harsh reality. Long hours, emotionally charged environments, and the ever-present risk of infection have become the norm. Our recent study shows 47% of people felt burnt out weekly or more. Symptoms include chronic fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and depression. These mental health issues do not just impact the workers themselves; they affect the quality of care they can provide, ultimately compromising patient safety.
“These women and men who put themselves in positions like first responders and healthcare workers, are under such a toll. Psychically, mentally and emotionally. Caring for themselves is absolutely critical for them, but it’s also critical for the people they assist.”
Craig Cowdrey, CEO, Sonder
Physical threats faced by frontline workers
The physical threats faced by frontline workers are equally daunting. Our data shows 1/4 employees in customer facing roles stated that they experience customer aggression at least weekly. And 40% of those working in retail, healthcare and social assistance said they did not receive any support after aggression. That’s compared to the baseline across industries, where 29% said they did not receive any support after aggression.
At Sonder, we recognise that addressing these challenges requires more than just acknowledging them; it necessitates actionable solutions. Our platform is designed to provide comprehensive support to healthcare workers, focusing on medical, wellbeing, and personal safety assistance. By doing so, we aim to create a support system that ensures frontline workers are equipped to cope with the pressures of their job.
“There’s been a real increase in customer hostility and while it does vary by industry, in healthcare we’ve seen huge challenges because of the load that’s been placed on public care infrastructure.”
Craig Cowdrey, CEO, Sonder
You can read more about how Sonder provides support to frontline workers facing customer hostility here.
Holistic wellbeing support for healthcare workers
One of the core components of our platform is the provision of immediate medical support. This includes access to telehealth services, allowing workers to consult with healthcare professionals without the added stress of scheduling and attending in-person appointments.
We understand that time is a precious commodity for those in the healthcare sector, and our telehealth services are designed to fit seamlessly into their demanding schedules.
In addition to medical support, our platform places a significant emphasis on mental health and wellbeing. We offer a range of resources, from counselling services to mindfulness and stress management workshops and a library of self help resources.
Sonder member story
We recently had a 17 year-old who has presented for supportive counselling, presenting issues as poor self esteem, social anxiety and loneliness. Through counselling they were able to identify a goal of starting a team sport, which will in turn increase their confidence and expand her social network. Using a graded exposure non judgmental support we have been able to guide the young person how to achieve their goals.
Practical safety support
Personal safety is another critical aspect of our support system. Frontline workers often find themselves in volatile situations, whether dealing with aggressive patients, travelling to and from shifts at unsociable hours, or working in high risk areas.
Sonder offers a holistic set of safety features that cater to these risks. When a company partners with Sonder to protect workforce safety, access to safety support is free, in the palms of their people, and available 24/7. This includes:
- Real time safety alerts: Alerting our members to potential threats
- The ‘check on me’ tool: Offering a discreet check in whenever peace of mind is needed
- The ‘track my trip’ tool: Monitoring member journeys and ensuring they arrive safely
You can read more about how Sonder provides safety support to frontline workers here.
The burnout epidemic among healthcare workers is not just a professional issue; it is a societal one. It is imperative that we recognise the immense pressures these individuals face and take concrete steps to alleviate them. The healthcare sector is the bedrock of our society, and its workers deserve every possible support to carry out their essential roles.
By providing comprehensive medical, wellbeing, and personal safety support, we can help our frontline workers not only survive but thrive in their roles. Their dedication and resilience are unparalleled, and it is our duty to ensure they have the resources and support they need to continue their invaluable work.
Meet Sonder’s preventative care platform
Sonder is a technology company that helps organisations improve the wellbeing of their people so they perform at their best. Our mobile app provides immediate, 24/7 support from a team of safety, medical, and mental health professionals - plus onsite help for time-sensitive scenarios. Accredited by the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS), our platform gives leaders the insights they need to act on tomorrow's wellbeing challenges today.
About Sonder
Sonder is a technology company that helps organisations improve the wellbeing of their people so they perform at their best. Our mobile app provides immediate, 24/7 support from a team of safety, medical, and mental health professionals - plus onsite help for time-sensitive scenarios. Sonder clinicians hold certifications across the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. This puts us alongside leading hospitals and healthcare institutions around the world.
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Sonder is reimagining health, safety and wellbeing support. Sonder proves human centric care leads to earlier intervention. Sonder impacts one person at a time to drive meaningful change across an organisation. Sonder understands people and how to support them.
