Systematic review and meta-analysis on the mental health of emergency and urgent call-handlers and dispatchers.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Call-handlers and dispatchers (CHDs) working in specialized emergency and urgent communication centres are essential in supporting public safety and health. Evidence suggests that these professionals are at increased risk of mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety and alcohol abuse among other conditions; however, reliable prevalence estimates remain undetermined.

Aims

We provide the estimated pooled prevalence for PTSD, depression, anxiety and hazardous drinking among emergency and urgent CHDs globally.

Methods

We searched 10 electronic databases, grey literature and the Annals of Emergency Dispatch and Response. Eligible studies reported original quantitative data and used validated self-reported meas

SUBMITTER: Osorio C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12449257 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature