INTERDISCIPLINARY INTEGRATION DURING PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCIES: CHALLENGES AND COPING STRATEGIES ACROSS PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL WORK, AND NURSING

Abstract

Public health emergencies, ranging from infectious disease outbreaks to natural disasters, necessitate a coordinated and comprehensive response that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries. Effective interdisciplinary integration is paramount for mitigating adverse health outcomes, providing holistic care, and fostering community resilience. This review article synthesizes the challenges inherent in achieving seamless collaboration among psychology, social work, and nursing professionals during such crises. It explores common impediments such as communication breakdowns, differing professional paradigms, and role ambiguity. Furthermore, the article identifies and discusses key coping strategies and best practices for enhancing interdisciplinary integration, including joint training, clear protocol development, and an emphasis on psychosocial support for both affected populations and frontline responders. By highlighting the unique contributions and synergistic potential of these three critical disciplines, this review aims to inform more effective and integrated emergency preparedness and response frameworks.