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Mental Health Service Preparedness during a Pandemic: A Delphi Study in Slovenia
Špela Selak1, Nuša Crnkovič1, Janja Horvat1
1National Institute of Public Health, Trubarjeva cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Zdravstveno Varstvo
|June 8, 2026
Summary
This study developed 47 consensus-based recommendations for organizing mental health services in Slovenia during future pandemics. Most measures are for pre-pandemic or early-stage implementation to ensure service continuity.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Mental Health Services Research
- Pandemic Preparedness
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted mental health services globally.
- Reorganization of mental health services was necessary to maintain care delivery.
- There was a need for structured guidance for future public health emergencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop consensus-based recommendations for operating mental health services in Slovenia during a potential pandemic.
- To outline specific measures and activities for pandemic preparedness in mental healthcare.
- To inform national guidelines for mental health service organization during crises.
Main Methods:
- A literature review of relevant measures, guidelines, and COVID-19 practices was conducted.
- A modified Delphi method involving 11 Slovenian mental health experts was employed.
- Four rounds of expert consensus-building were used to refine recommendations.
Main Results:
- Consensus was achieved on 47 distinct measures and activities.
- The majority of recommended measures are intended for implementation before or at the onset of a pandemic.
- A smaller proportion of measures were designated for use during the pandemic itself.
Conclusions:
- The study provides consensus-based preparedness guidance for mental health services during pandemics.
- The findings can inform the development of national guidelines and strategic frameworks for crisis management in mental healthcare.
- The recommendations emphasize proactive planning and early implementation of measures for service resilience.
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