# COVID-19 Impacts on Pennsylvania Coordinated Specialty Care for Early Psychosis Participants

## TL;DR

This study explores how the COVID-19 pandemic affected young people with early psychosis in Pennsylvania and their participation in specialized care programs.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into psychosocial impacts and low vaccination rates among early psychosis clients during the pandemic.

## Key findings

- Participants reported significant pandemic-related disruptions to daily life.
- Clients showed low vaccination rates (28.6%) as of September 2021.
- Coping strategies were widely used but did not vary much across demographic groups.

## Abstract

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic produced swift, extensive changes in daily life, including for first-episode psychosis (FEP) clients. This study examined pandemic-related psychosocial impacts to clients while engaged in Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC). We also examined FEP client vaccination rates, as vaccinations can reduce hospitalizations/deaths, and related worries.

Thirty-one clients (45% female; ages 13-39; 26% black, 61% white) from Pennsylvania (PA) CSC outpatient programs completed an online survey evaluating exposure to COVID-19, associated worries, coping, and safety strategies. Descriptive statistics characterized responses and demographic group differences. Additional program evaluation data informed vaccination rates for PA FEP clients.

Participants reported substantial pandemic-related impacts to daily life. Many clients reported improved safety measures to protect themselves/others from COVID-19. Clients largely denied substantial worries about infection for themselves, reporting greater concern for loved ones. Multiple coping strategies were endorsed, which, with few exceptions, did not differ among demographic groups. FEP clients had a low reported rate of vaccination (28.6%) as of September 2021.

Observed prolonged pandemic effects may alter FEP client progress in CSC. Stakeholders should be prepared to adjust FEP treatment accordingly in the event of a similar disaster. Concentrated vaccination efforts may be necessary for this population.