Introduction
As practitioners in the field of speech language pathology, we are committed to using data-driven decisions to improve outcomes for children. A recent research article titled "The global health and care worker compact: evidence base and policy considerations" provides a comprehensive review of international legal and policy instruments aimed at safeguarding the rights and well-being of health and care workers. This blog will explore how the findings from this research can be implemented to enhance our practice and encourage further research.
Key Findings from the Research
The research identified more than 70 documents that collectively address the following four domains:
- Preventing harm (occupational hazards, violence, and harassment)
- Inclusivity (non-discrimination and equality)
- Providing support (fair remuneration, social protection, enabling work environments)
- Safeguarding rights (freedom of association, whistle-blower protections)
Practical Applications for Speech Language Pathologists
Based on the findings, here are some actionable steps that can be taken to improve our practice:
- Preventing Harm: Implement occupational health and safety measures, including providing adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensuring safe staffing levels.
- Inclusivity: Adopt non-discriminatory policies and practices to ensure equal treatment for all health and care workers, regardless of their background.
- Providing Support: Advocate for fair and equitable remuneration and social protection for all health and care workers. Create enabling work environments that provide the necessary resources and support.
- Safeguarding Rights: Support the rights of health and care workers to freedom of association and collective bargaining. Implement strong whistle-blower protections to ensure that workers can report issues without fear of retaliation.
Encouraging Further Research
While the research provides a robust framework, it also highlights the need for further studies to evaluate the effectiveness of these policies in different contexts. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this body of knowledge by conducting research and sharing their findings.
Conclusion
Implementing the recommendations from the global health and care worker compact can significantly enhance the well-being and effectiveness of health and care workers, ultimately leading to better outcomes for children. By adopting these practices and engaging in further research, we can continue to improve our field.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The global health and care worker compact: evidence base and policy considerations.
