Health Pycology Committee Report

FINAL PROJECT

Health Psychology Committee Report

HCA/250

Janet Parker

Serina Madden

November 21, 2010

In the attempt to improve patient health, measurable by shorter hospitalizations and improved adherence to medical regimens, the Health Psychology Committee has developed a psychiatry division comprised of five specialists responsible for implementing psychological methods which will enable the treatment of the patient on a more complete level. By implementing these psychological methods the patient can be treated from a “whole person” perspective which is essential to better overall patient health.

Research suggests one of the top human fears of both children and adults is the fear of hospitals, (Child Development Institute, 2008). If this were the only reason to implement the use of psychological methods in the treatment of patients this would be reason enough. However, taking into consideration the undeniable presence of stress in any instance of illness and the fact that stress not only effects behavior responses, it will also impair the immune functioning by changes in the body’s physical systems role of psychology that will become even more evident in providing patient care (Sarafino, 2006).

Program Overview and Emphasis; in the psychiatry division there will be five psychologists. Positions will include; inpatient-only psychologist, child psychologist, substance abuse counselor, adult psychologist, and pain management specialist. This specialist will work closely with the patients and with other specialists in the division to ensure the patient needs are adequately addressed. Also, the division will meet regularly as a whole to discuss patient management plans and assess patient progress.

Patient interactions and treatment plans will be developed using the positive psychology approach. The human strengths of self-control and hope will be the main focus. Reason is the individuals who...