Chapter 2: Stress on caregivers and providers

Chapter 2: Stress on caregivers and providers 

Perhaps one of the most troubling indicators that there is something wrong with our health care system is the strain that is being felt by family and friends who are caregivers of patients, as well as some health care providers. There are clear indications throughout the system of provider burnout, including staffing shortages in certain positions and parts of the province, and high levels of stress.

Among patients who received home care for six months or longer, in the first half of 2017/18, approximately 26% had a primary family or friend caregiver who experienced continued distress, anger or depression in relation to their caregiving role – this is up from about 21% in the first half of 2012/13.^{footnote 16[16]} This strain is also felt among some personal support workers (PSWs). It’s difficult and rewarding work, but scheduling can often be unpredictable and can lead to a break-down in care continuity for workers and home care clients.

This stress on providers is also finding its way into hospitals and other health care settings. For example, a study of four Ontario hospitals found that health care providers often experience role overload (too many responsibilities and too little time), and that 59% of providers reported high levels of stress.^{footnote 17[17]}

Solving hallway health care will not just be a matter of adding more beds to the system. Increasing capacity in the community, staffing levels, training, and support will play an important role in building a high-functioning system that works for all Ontarians – including the ones who work in health care.