Zero Suicide

Under the guidance of Deborah Weidner, MD, MBA, Regional Medical Director for Behavioral Health in the East Region, Vice President for Patient Safety and Quality for the BHN and Medical Director for Primary Care Behavioral Health Integration, leaders and champions groups were formed, representing every area and discipline within Natchaug. All employees were invited to participate in an organizational self-assessment of their thoughts on and understanding of suicide.

Starting in June, Natchaug began piloting a Zero Suicide initiative on the adult inpatient unit, where staff will begin making next-day phone calls to those discharged out of the hospital, with a goal of identifying and eliminating risk of suicide. Champions are also participating in ongoing meetings to roll out other Zero Suicide best practices.

Although it might not be realistic to achieve zero suicides, striving toward that goal can lead to better outcomes, improved quality of life and hope for staff, clients and their loved ones.The program began at the Institute of Living and is now being rolled out across the BHN.