The cost of psychological distress among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic

BACKGROUND: Since it began, the COVID-19 pandemic has placed significant stress on healthcare workers (HCW) and have left them experiencing higher levels of psychological distress. These mental health impacts can persist long term, leading to lower workforce wellbeing and higher costs to organisations if unaddressed. This study aimed to identify those most at risks, modifiable factors, and the organisational cost of psychological distress among Australian frontline HCWs METHODS: In January 2023, 210 HCWs working in Australian hospitals completed an online measure of psychological distress (Kessler-six item: K6) and the Coronavirus Health and Impact Survey. Data was analysed using adjusted multivariate regressions and relative weight analysis to determine key predictors. To estimate organisational cost, K6 items regarding days out of role and days working at reduced capacity were used in combination with salary rates from public enterprise agreements. RESULTS: Severe psychological distress was present in 9.5% of participants. Risk factors include younger age (p < 0.05, R(2)=2.5%), poor pre covid mental health (p < 0.001, R(2)=15.4%), and outdoors time (p < 0.001, R(2)=5.1%). Protective factors include positive relationship changes (p < 0.05, R(2)=2.8%) and better supervisor support (p < 0.01, R(2)=4.7%). Among the sample, 32.2% had at least one day out of role and 52.0% had at least one day working at reduced capacity, which combined costs organisations on average between $859 to $1461 AUD per person per month. Days out of role and working at reduced capacity were both predicted by K6 scores (p < 0.001), pre covid mental health (p < 0.001), physical health (p < 0.01), supervisor support (p < 0.01), and relationships stress (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Psychological distress continues to remain prevalent among frontline HCWs, highlighting the need for ongoing and targeted supports to mitigate long term mental health issues and the high organisational cost associated with it. KEY MESSAGES: • The COVID-19 continues to place significant psychological burden on HCWs and findings demonstrate that this has led to high costs to organisations. • Findings highlight risk and protective factors for psychological distress that can be targeted to reduce both psychological distress and the high organisational cost associated with it.