The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world immensely. One of the aspects of daily living that has been affected the most is healthcare, and the pandemic has had ramifications on how healthcare is used and distributed both now and most certainly in the future. A topic of discussion these past few months is how the pandemic has impacted behavioral health within our communities, as well as the ties between physical and mental health in general.
During these stressful times, HealthLinc is ready to offer assistance to those in need. With locations in La Porte, Michigan City, Valparaiso, South Bend, East Chicago, Knox, and Mishawaka, HealthLinc provides important services such as medical, pharmacy, dental, optometry and behavioral health to its communities.
“The pandemic has created a lot of fear and anxiety due to how it has affected how people have to live their lives, like self-quarantining and social distancing,” said Mimi Gardner, Chief Behavioral Health and Addictions Officer at HealthLinc. “For those who already have underlying stress and anxiety, the COVID-19 pandemic has taken things to a whole other level.”
Gardner describes the relationship between physical and mental health as very strong and codependent. When changes happen to one, it usually affects the other. As such, the behavioral health services at HealthLinc are available to help clients determine and adjust to changes that are needed to cultivate a healthier lifestyle. In this time of pandemic, these services are more important now than ever, especially for more vulnerable groups like the elderly and those in isolation.
Fortunately, HealthLinc has been adapting to the conditions made by pandemic by providing telehealth measures via Zoom meetings, COVID-19 testing at all of their clinics, and community outreach and education services.
“Our clinics are very supportive of our clients’ behavioral health,” Gardner said. “Our providers make sure that as clients are assessed, all of their social and emotional needs are taken care of. As their needs change, we will continue to accommodate.”
HealthLinc was able to endure the pandemic through strong, consistent communication and a commitment to adapt and help others out during times of need, echoing its mission.
“I am so proud of all of HealthLinc’s staff,” said Beth Wrobel, CEO of HealthLinc. “Their dedication to our clients amazes me. Despite how uncertain the future feels, working together to help those in need in our communities makes me feel fortunate to be working alongside such a talented group of people.”
HealthLinc improves its communities by expanding access to exceptional health care. Their highly educated and experienced providers will care for you and your family. With a team-based approach, HealthLinc focuses on treating patients as a whole person and offer a variety of services at each of their locations. For more information about their services, please visit healthlincchc.org.