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Feature
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The value and impact of structured , reflective space
Sarah Harvey shares the reflections of six occupational therapy apprentices on attending Schwartz Rounds , considering the value and impact they ’ ve had on their occupational therapy learning and practice .
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n April 2023 , Canterbury Christ Church University began implementing Schwartz Rounds for allied health professional students and new registrants . These are a structured reflective space for people to come together to discuss the challenges , rewards and the emotional impact of working in healthcare .
Schwartz Rounds support staff and students to work together to deliver compassionate care in practice ( Maben et al 2018 ). According to the Point of Care Foundation ( POCF 2020 ), in 2020 they were being run in over 272 health organisations in the UK and Ireland , and 17 higher education institutions delivering health and social care professions courses .
Anthea Tauya explains the rationale behind the rounds . ‘ Founded in 1995 by Kevin Schwartz in the US , his experience of healthcare services after a diagnosis of lung cancer made him see the importance of human connection and that small acts of kindness mattered .’ She adds : ‘ He wanted to create a safe space for staff to share different emotional encounters with patients and or other professionals . The Point of Care Foundation holds the licence and provides training for staff .
‘ The round is run by two facilitators , who prepare three storytellers to share an experience from their practice . Ideally the participants would be from different professional backgrounds and levels of expertise , to add a variety of perspectives and reduce hierarchy or judgement .
‘ Schwartz Rounds allow people to learn together for a better delivery of care services ; thus , confidentiality is to be maintained .’
April 2024 OTnews 23