BENCHMARKING VISIT TO ZOMBA MENTAL HOSPITAL

This week, a team from St John of God Hospitaller Services had the privilege of visiting Zomba Mental Hospital, Malawi’s other tertiary psychiatric hospital, for a benchmarking exchange. As the only two facilities of this kind in the country, collaboration and shared learning are vital to advancing mental healthcare in Malawi.

During the exchange visit we shared lessons on how we can improve our services in the following areas: Risk Management, Emergency Response, Use of Technology for monitoring purposes and Staff support to ensure optimal service delivery. On risk management, the two teams shared the risk management tools that they use such as forms and policies and also shared insights on what they can add to enhance safety of both staff and clients. As any hospital, emergency response is critical and on this, the two teams shared the best practices on de-escalation and teamwork during crises. On use of technology for monitoring it was discussed that using CCTV would be an effective way of monitoring clients and staff and also there is need to enhance documentation to improve client care. Finally regarding staff support, discussions emphasized the importance of mental health resources, training, and a supportive work environment to maintain high quality delivery.

This benchmarking visit strengthened the partnership between St John of God of Hospitaller Services and Zomba Mental Hospital, fostering mutual growth in mental healthcare practices. By sharing knowledge and innovative strategies, both institutions are better equipped to address challenges and improve care for their clients. Such collaborations underscore the power of teamwork in advancing mental health services across Malawi, ensuring a safer and more supportive environment for both clients and healthcare providers. We look forward to continued exchanges that drive progress and excellence in mental healthcare.

ST JOHN OF GOD HOSPITALLER SERVICES MALAWI BRANDING

We are happy to announce the new branding of our services, having become part of Hospitaller Services Group Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. Our new logo consists of the St John of God wordmark and pomegranate symbol. The pomegranate, with its geometric design, is upheld by foliage that symbolises St John of God’s unwavering support to the people who access any of their services. The internal seeds (seeds of hospitality) represent growth and potential for thriving. Within the negative space, the seeds create a discreet cross which is in respect of the heritage of the organisation.

     

The new Saint John of God logo which has replaced the old logo.