From EAP to BHAP: a conceptual framework to develop and implement a comprehensive behavioral health access program within the fire service
International Journal of Emergency Services
ISSN: 2047-0894
Article publication date: 7 February 2023
Issue publication date: 23 November 2023
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to articulate the results of a comprehensive literature review and grassroots outreach with first responder organizations to present an operationalized framework for organizations to utilize as a blueprint in developing customized behavioral health access program (BHAP) programs.
Design/methodology/approach
Historically, authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ)over fire service organizations have primarily offered behavioral health interventions through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or commercial insurance carriers. These programs are necessary but may prove insufficient to meet the scope and needs of trauma-exposed firefighters and the firefighters' families.
Findings
A BHAP is a comprehensive and operationalized plan which clearly specifies the mental health services fire department members and families need, where those services are available within their communities and levels and standards of care that are expected in the provision of these services.
Originality/value
The BHAP is becoming a world standard of behavioral health care for first responders. While some fire service agencies are beginning to create BHAP guides, developing and implementing a BHAP can be time consuming and overwhelming, particularly for departments with limited internal and external resources. While the results of this review focus on BHAP within the fire service, this framework is applicable across all first responder professions.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge the 2nd Alarm Project, the Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative, the University of Central Florida RESTORES program, the City of Coral Springs/ Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department and the City of Tallahassee Fire Department for their significant contributions to this work.
Citation
ODare, K., Bator, C., Butler, L., Orrange, J., Porter, L., Rehbein, M., Dilks, J., Dillard, D.R., King, E., Herzog, J. and Rotunda, R. (2023), "From EAP to BHAP: a conceptual framework to develop and implement a comprehensive behavioral health access program within the fire service", International Journal of Emergency Services, Vol. 12 No. 3, pp. 318-342. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJES-11-2021-0078
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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