Mental Health Service Preparedness during a Pandemic: A Delphi Study in Slovenia

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for mental health, requiring many mental health services to reorganise. The aim of this study was to develop a set of consensus-based recommendations outlining measures and activities for the operation of mental health services during a potential pandemic in Slovenia. Methods To develop a preliminary list of measures, relevant literature, existing guidelines, and COVID-19 response practices were reviewed. These measures were then evaluated using a modified Delphi method. Eleven Slovenian mental health experts participated in 4 Delphi rounds to determine which measures should be implemented and at which stage of a potential future pandemic. Results Consensus was reached on 47 measures and activities. The majority were classified for implementation before or at the onset of a potential pandemic, with only a small number designated for implementation during the pandemic. Conclusions The identified measures and activities are discussed in relation to existing research and international frameworks. They represent consensus-based preparedness guidance for the organisation of mental health services during a pandemic or similar public health emergency and may inform the future development of national guidelines and strategic frameworks.