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Lombardi BM, de Saxe Zerden L, Prentice A, Downs SG. Social workers roles in achieving health quality metrics in primary care: a quality improvement case study. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2024; 63:102-116. [PMID: 38111375 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2023.2292542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Value-based payment models may improve patient health by targeting quality of care over quantity of health services. Social workers in primary care settings are well-positioned to improve the quality of health services for vulnerable patients by identifying and addressing patients' social determinants of health. This case study describes a Plan Do Study Act (PDSA) quality improvement approach implemented and refined by social workers to proactively address clinical quality gaps in one family medicine practice. The studied program - entitled Gap Closure Day - was led by a team of social workers to improve quality outcomes of patients. Findings highlight the important roles of social workers as members of health care teams to improve the quality of health services and address health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna M Lombardi
- Department of Family Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lisa de Saxe Zerden
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amy Prentice
- Department of Family Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sarah Grace Downs
- Department of Family Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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2
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Beimer NJ, LaFrance WC. Evaluation and Treatment of Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures. Neurol Clin 2022; 40:799-820. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2022.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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3
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Zellmer L, Johnson B, Idris A, Mehus CJ, Borowsky IW. Post-Identification Approaches to Addressing Health-Related Social Needs in Primary Care: A Qualitative Study. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:802-808. [PMID: 34331212 PMCID: PMC8904656 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-021-07033-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social determinants of health play a fundamental role in a patient's health status. In recent years, health systems across the nation have implemented numerous strategies aimed at identifying and addressing the health-related social needs of the patients they serve. Despite the influx of peer-reviewed research highlighting outcomes of specific health-related social needs interventions, the spectrum of practices utilized by primary care clinics has not been established. OBJECTIVE To determine the range of ways primary care clinics address health-related social needs after identification and initial contact with a frontline staff person is completed. DESIGN We conducted 12 semi-structured, in-person interviews with staff from purposively sampled clinics. If the interview included more than one staff person, all participants were interviewed together. PARTICIPANTS Twenty-one administrative staff and frontline clinic personnel with experience in 24 separate primary care clinics in the Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota metropolitan area. APPROACH Interviews focused on the range of health-related social needs processes utilized by clinics, including staff titles, referral procedures, and barriers to addressing needs. Interview recordings were transcribed and coded using thematic analysis. KEY RESULTS Thematic analysis identified variation in four key areas involving how clinics address patients' health-related social needs after identification and initial contact by frontline staff: clinic personnel involved in addressing needs, clinic referral processes, "resource" and "success" definitions, and barriers to accessing community-based supports. CONCLUSIONS This study describes the large variation in primary care clinic practices to address health-related social needs after they are identified. The results suggest challenges to standardization and real-world application of previously published studies. Our findings also highlight the opportunity for improved relationships between health systems and community-based agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Zellmer
- University of Minnesota Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Bryan Johnson
- University of Minnesota Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ahmed Idris
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Christopher J Mehus
- Institute for Translational Research in Children's Mental Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Iris W Borowsky
- Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Health, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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4
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Miller JJ, Reddin Cassar J. Self-care among healthcare social workers: The impact of COVID-19. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2021; 60:30-48. [PMID: 33550956 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2021.1885560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
For social work practitioners in healthcare settings, self-care can be an integral tool to assuaging stressors associated with COVID-19. However, research that examines the impact of public health crises, such as COVID-19, is nominal, at best. This exploratory study investigated the impact of COVID-19 on the self-care practices of self-identified healthcare social workers (N = 2,460) in one southeastern state. Primary data were collected via an electronic survey and assessed via a retrospective pre/post design. Analyses compared practices before and after COVID-19 was declared a pandemic. Overall, data suggest that participants experienced significant pre/post decreases in self-care practices across multiple domains. As well, findings indicate that participants who identified as married, financially stable, and working non-remotely, and in good physical/mental health engaged in significantly more self-care practices than other participants, at post. This study underscores the need to foster supportive professional cultures that include developing self-care practice skills, particularly during large-scale crisis, such as COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jay Miller
- Self-Care Lab, College of Social Work, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
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Ruth BJ, Marshall JW, Wachman M, Marbach A, Choudhury NS. More than a Great Idea: Findings from the Profiles in Public Health Social Work Study. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 35:235-247. [PMID: 32589555 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2020.1783417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Progress in refining the definition and basic concepts of public health social work (PHSW) is central to its revitalization. Advancing PHSW further depends on understanding the roles, domains, and daily activities of current PHSW practitioners in the contemporary workforce. The goal of the Profiles in PHSW Study is to explore how public health social workers conceptualize and locate their work. Using snowball sampling, 48 PHSW subjects with four or more years of professional experience were recruited; 34 (70.8%) participated. Qualitative survey responses were compiled and thematically analyzed; six themes emerged related to the nuances of integrating public health and social work, wide-ranging practice across systems and settings, leadership, visibility and viability, and recommendations for how to move PHSW forward. Findings suggest that intentional profession-wide integration of public health approaches into social work education, research, and practice is needed to strengthen the field's impact and role in advancing population health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty J Ruth
- School of Social, Work, Boston University , Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Madi Wachman
- School of Social Work, Center for Innovation in Social Work & Health, Boston University , Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Nandini S Choudhury
- Women's Health Program Coordinator at Fenway Health , Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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6
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Cleak H, Kr A, Heaslop G, Tonge A. Challenges to the development of a health care practice model for hospital social work in India. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2020; 59:122-137. [PMID: 32011219 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2020.1719566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 01/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
India has a long history of delivering a western model of social work despite being challenged by unique structural challenges, as well as demographic and social changes impacting the types of presentations to hospitals. This paper reports on a project that explored the professional roles of Indian social workers in hospital settings, and documented some of the critical factors that impede capacity to meet the demands of a changing health care system. Extracted themes from participants identified a lack of role descriptions, professional supervision, and national standards as contributing to a lack of confidence in asserting strong professional identity and contribution to patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Cleak
- Public Health & Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Anish Kr
- School of Social Work, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, Cochin, India
| | - Georgina Heaslop
- Social Work Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Angela Tonge
- Social Work Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
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Eaton CK. Social workers, nurses, or both: Who is primarily responsible for hospital discharge planning with older adults? SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2018; 57:851-863. [PMID: 30300115 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2018.1521892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the profession primarily responsible for discharge planning in all hospitals serving older adults in Minnesota. Quantitative analyses determined that the majority of hospitals in Minnesota serving older adults are small, rural hospitals with critical access designations, are private nonprofit, and are affiliated with a health care system. Social workers are primarily responsible for discharge planning in half of the hospitals, nurses in a quarter and either a nurse/social worker team or both nurse and social worker separately in the remaining quarter. Multinomial logistic regression determined that in critical access hospitals nurses are more likely than social workers to be the profession primarily responsible for discharge planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charissa K Eaton
- a Department of Social Work , Winona State University , Winona , MN , USA
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Lianekhammy J, Miller JJ, Lee J, Pope N, Barnhart S, Grise-Owens E. Exploring the self-compassion of health-care social workers: How do they fare? SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2018; 57:563-580. [PMID: 29723135 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2018.1471017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Indubitably, the challenges facing health-care social workers are becoming increasingly complex. Whilst these problematic professional circumstances compound the need for self-compassion among health-care social workers, few studies, if any, have explicitly examined self-compassion among this practitioner group. This cross-sectional study explored self-compassion among a sample of practitioners (N = 138) in one southeastern state. Results indicate that health-care social workers in this sample engage in self-compassion only moderately. Further, occupational and demographic/life characteristics (e.g., age, years practicing social work, average hours worked per week, health status, and relationship status, among others) are able to predict self-compassion scores. After a terse review of relevant literature, this paper will explicate findings from this study, discuss relevant points derived from said findings, and identify salient implication for health-care social work praxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joann Lianekhammy
- a Family and Consumer Sciences Extension , University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
| | - J Jay Miller
- b College of Social Work , University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
| | - Jacquelyn Lee
- c University of North Carolina Wilmington , Wilmington , North Carolina , USA
| | - Natalie Pope
- b College of Social Work , University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
| | - Sheila Barnhart
- b College of Social Work , University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
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9
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Evans EJ. Blended Roles under Health Reform: Where Does Social Work Fit? HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK 2018; 43:141-144. [PMID: 29878191 DOI: 10.1093/hsw/hly016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ethan J Evans
- Ethan J. Evans, PhD, MSW, is assistant professor, Division of Social Work, California State University, Sacramento, and research affiliate, Center for Healthcare Policy and Research, University of California, Davis
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10
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Ruth BJ, Wachman MK, Marshall JW, Backman AR, Harrington CB, Schultz NS, Ouimet KJ. Health in All Social Work Programs: Findings From a US National Analysis. Am J Public Health 2017; 107:S267-S273. [PMID: 29236538 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2017.304034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To establish a baseline of health content in 4 domains of US social work education-baccalaureate, master's, doctoral, and continuing education programs-and to introduce the Social Work Health Impact Model, illustrating social work's multifaceted health services, from clinical to wide-lens population health approaches. METHODS We analyzed US social work programs' Web site content to determine amount and types of health content in mission statements, courses, and specializations. Coding criterion determined if content was (1) health or health-related (HHR) and (2) had wide-lens health (WLH) emphasis. A second iteration categorized HHR and WLH courses into health topics. RESULTS We reviewed 4831 courses. We found broad HHR content in baccalaureate, master's, and continuing education curricula; doctoral programs had limited health content. We identified minimal WLH content across all domains. Topical analysis indicated that more than 50% of courses concentrated on 3 areas: mental and behavioral health, abuse and violence, and substance use and addictions. CONCLUSIONS As a core health profession, social work must strengthen its health and wide-lens content to better prepare graduates for integrated practice and collaboration in the changing health environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty J Ruth
- Betty J. Ruth, Madeline K. Wachman, Calla B. Harrington, and Kaitlyn J. Ouimet are with Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Jamie W. Marshall is with the Group for Public Health Social Work Initiatives, Boston. Allison R. Backman and Neena S. Schultz are with Boston University School of Public Health
| | - Madeline K Wachman
- Betty J. Ruth, Madeline K. Wachman, Calla B. Harrington, and Kaitlyn J. Ouimet are with Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Jamie W. Marshall is with the Group for Public Health Social Work Initiatives, Boston. Allison R. Backman and Neena S. Schultz are with Boston University School of Public Health
| | - Jamie W Marshall
- Betty J. Ruth, Madeline K. Wachman, Calla B. Harrington, and Kaitlyn J. Ouimet are with Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Jamie W. Marshall is with the Group for Public Health Social Work Initiatives, Boston. Allison R. Backman and Neena S. Schultz are with Boston University School of Public Health
| | - Allison R Backman
- Betty J. Ruth, Madeline K. Wachman, Calla B. Harrington, and Kaitlyn J. Ouimet are with Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Jamie W. Marshall is with the Group for Public Health Social Work Initiatives, Boston. Allison R. Backman and Neena S. Schultz are with Boston University School of Public Health
| | - Calla B Harrington
- Betty J. Ruth, Madeline K. Wachman, Calla B. Harrington, and Kaitlyn J. Ouimet are with Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Jamie W. Marshall is with the Group for Public Health Social Work Initiatives, Boston. Allison R. Backman and Neena S. Schultz are with Boston University School of Public Health
| | - Neena S Schultz
- Betty J. Ruth, Madeline K. Wachman, Calla B. Harrington, and Kaitlyn J. Ouimet are with Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Jamie W. Marshall is with the Group for Public Health Social Work Initiatives, Boston. Allison R. Backman and Neena S. Schultz are with Boston University School of Public Health
| | - Kaitlyn J Ouimet
- Betty J. Ruth, Madeline K. Wachman, Calla B. Harrington, and Kaitlyn J. Ouimet are with Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Jamie W. Marshall is with the Group for Public Health Social Work Initiatives, Boston. Allison R. Backman and Neena S. Schultz are with Boston University School of Public Health
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Abstract
Social work is a core health profession with origins deeply connected to the development of contemporary public health in the United States. Today, many of the nation's 600 000 social workers practice broadly in public health and in other health settings, drawing on a century of experience in combining clinical, intermediate, and population approaches for greater health impact. Yet, the historic significance of this long-standing interdisciplinary collaboration-and its current implications-remains underexplored in the present era. This article builds on primary and contemporary sources to trace the historic arc of social work in public health, providing examples of successful collaborations. The scope and practices of public health social work practice are explored, and we articulate a rationale for an expanded place for social work in the public health enterprise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty J Ruth
- Betty J. Ruth is with the Dual Degree Program in Social Work and Public Health, School of Social Work, Boston University, Boston, MA. Jamie Wyatt Marshall is with the Group for Public Health Social Work Initiatives, Boston
| | - Jamie Wyatt Marshall
- Betty J. Ruth is with the Dual Degree Program in Social Work and Public Health, School of Social Work, Boston University, Boston, MA. Jamie Wyatt Marshall is with the Group for Public Health Social Work Initiatives, Boston
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12
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Miller JJ, Lianekhammy J, Pope N, Lee J, Grise-Owens E. Self-care among healthcare social workers: An exploratory study. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2017; 56:865-883. [PMID: 28876199 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2017.1371100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite growing interest in self-care, few studies have explicitly examined the self-care practices of healthcare social workers. This exploratory study investigated self-care among practitioners (N = 138) in one southeastern state. Overall, data suggest that healthcare social workers only moderately engaged in self-care. Additionally, analyses revealed significant differences in self-care practices by financial stability, overall health, and licensure status, respectively. Interestingly, perceived health status and current financial situation were significant predictors for overall self-care practices. After a brief review of the literature, this narrative will explicate findings, elucidate discussion points, identify salient implications, and conclude with areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jay Miller
- a College of Social Work , University of Kentucky , Lexington , KY , USA
| | - Joann Lianekhammy
- b Family and Consumer Sciences Extension , University of Kentucky , Lexington , KY , USA
| | - Natalie Pope
- a College of Social Work , University of Kentucky , Lexington , KY , USA
| | - Jacquelyn Lee
- c Department of Social Work , University of North Carolina Wilmington , North Carolina , USA
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13
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Lynch S, Greeno C, Teich J, Delany P. Opportunities for social work under the Affordable Care Act: A call for action. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2016; 55:651-674. [PMID: 27649338 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2016.1221871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has profoundly restructured American health care. Numerous social work authors have commented on the importance of the ACA's reforms to social work practice, education, and research. This article summarizes the literature, adds relevant information, and makes recommendations for future actions. The policy, opinion, and peer-reviewed literatures were systematically reviewed. Sixty-three publications appeared between 2010 and 2015 are included. Five themes emerged, as follows: 1) the crucial provisions of the ACA, 2) the natural affinity of social work and the ACA reforms, 3) curricular adaptations needed to address changing workforce needs, 4) areas for continued social work advocacy, and 5) opportunities for high-impact social work research. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the ACA, its reforms, and opportunities for social work to assume a high visibility leadership role in implementing the reforms, with particular emphasis on needed curricular changes and opportunities for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Lynch
- a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration , Rockville , Maryland , USA
| | - Catherine Greeno
- b School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania , USA
| | - Judith Teich
- a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration , Rockville , Maryland , USA
| | - Peter Delany
- c Office of National Drug Control Policy , Washington , District of Columbia , USA
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Pugh GL. Job satisfaction and turnover intent among hospital social workers in the United States. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2016; 55:485-502. [PMID: 27322030 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2016.1186133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Feelings of job satisfaction and turnover intentions among social workers affect work quality for both social workers and the people for whom they provide services. Existing literature on job satisfaction among hospital social workers is limited, and is overly focused on issues of compensation. There is job satisfaction research with hospital nurses available for comparison. Other informative social work research on job satisfaction and turnover exists in mental health and generally, across settings. Research on turnover intent in social work is primarily from child welfare settings and may not generalize. The literature notes gaps and contradictions about predictors of job satisfaction and turnover intent. Using a large national dataset of hospital social workers, this research clarifies and fills gaps regarding hospital social workers, and explores how Herzberg's theory of work can clarify the difference between sources of job dissatisfaction and job satisfaction. Findings include hospital social workers reporting high job satisfaction and that demographics do not contribute to the predictive models. The findings do support centralized social work departments and variety in the job functions of hospital social workers, and are consistent with the theoretical framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg L Pugh
- a School of Social Work , Portland State University , Portland , Oregon , USA
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15
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Trowbridge K, Mische Lawson L. Mindfulness-based interventions with social workers and the potential for enhanced patient-centered care: A systematic review of the literature. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2016; 55:101-124. [PMID: 26745592 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2015.1094165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The use of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) is well documented in the mental health, medical, and education literature. There is minimal research on the use of mindfulness with social workers. As demonstrated in other professional and helping fields, mindfulness may enhance clinical skills, reduce burnout, and increase job satisfaction among social workers. In the health care field mindfulness appears integral to patient and family relationships and personal resilience. The evolving and expanding role of hospital social workers may lead to increased work stress and greater demands from both the medical system and patients and families. Research with medical providers, such as physicians and nurses, suggests mindfulness may help in reducing stress, enhancing relationships, and fostering the self-reflection required to provide patient-centered care. We systematically reviewed the existing literature to begin understanding both mindfulness qualities and practices and the effectiveness of MBIs among social workers as well as the relationship of mindfulness to patient-centered care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Trowbridge
- a Center for Professionalism and Well-Being , Children's Mercy , Kansas City , Missouri , USA
| | - Lisa Mische Lawson
- b Department of Occupational Therapy Education , University of Kansas Medical Center , Kansas City , Kansas , USA
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16
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Silverman E. Caught between Denial and Dollars: The Challenge of a Health Care Social Worker. SOCIAL WORK 2016; 61:87-89. [PMID: 26898004 DOI: 10.1093/sw/swv045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
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17
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Linton KF, Ing MM, Vento MA, Nakagawa K. From discharge planner to "concierge": recommendations for hospital social work by clients with intracerebral hemorrhage. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 30:486-495. [PMID: 26252181 PMCID: PMC5022556 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2015.1058730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The Affordable Care Act and budget cuts have changed the role of hospital social workers by placing pressure on them to conduct speedy discharges and decrease readmission rates. This qualitative study aimed to assess if hospital social work is meeting the needs of clients in the hospital and postdischarge. Semistructured interviews with 10 clients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and 11 caregivers were conducted. Participants reported that social work services were not meeting their needs. Clients with ICH and their caregivers expressed needs from social workers that surpassed their roles as discharge planners, including counseling, help with finances and insurance, and advocacy. Participants wanted social work services to begin early in acute treatment with continuity postdischarge. Social workers should conduct ethical social work by meeting clients where they are, addressing needs as prioritized by the client, and advocating individually and organizationally for clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen F. Linton
- Assistant Professor, Health Sciences Program, California State University, Channel Islands, One University Drive, Camarillo, CA, 93012
| | - Marissa M. Ing
- Neuroscience Institute, The Queen’s Medical Center, Honolulu, HI
| | - Megan A. Vento
- Neuroscience Institute, The Queen’s Medical Center, Honolulu, HI
| | - Kazuma Nakagawa
- Neuroscience Institute, The Queen’s Medical Center, Honolulu, HI
- Department of Medicine, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI
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Ruth BJ, Velásquez EE, Marshall JW, Ziperstein D. Shaping the future of prevention in social work: an analysis of the professional literature from 2000 through 2010. SOCIAL WORK 2015; 60:126-134. [PMID: 25929010 PMCID: PMC4888782 DOI: 10.1093/sw/swu060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In light of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act's goals of better patient care, cost control, and improved population outcomes, prevention has emerged as an important component of health reform. Social work, with its extensive involvement in the health system and deep roots in public health, can benefit from a better understanding of its role in prevention. This study builds on the Social Work Interest in Prevention Study (SWIPS), which evaluated extent, type, and levels of prevention content in nine social work journals from 2000 to 2005. The goal of the expanded study, the SWIPS-Expansion, was to assess whether interest in prevention increased over the years in which health reform was enacted. Of the 3,745 articles reviewed, 9.0 percent (n = 336) met the criteria for "prevention articles." Between 2000 and 2010, prevention articles rose from 4.1 percent to 14.3 percent of all articles. A secondary analysis focused on topics within social work prevention, with violence, aging, and disease as primary focal areas. The findings suggest that although prevention interest appears to be growing, it remains a minority focus in the profession's journals. A national conversation on prevention can help expand the profession's role in health reform at this critical time.
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Ziperstein D, Ruth BJ, Clement A, Marshall JW, Wachman M, Velasquez EE. Mapping Dual-Degree Programs in Social Work and Public Health: Results From a National Survey. ADVANCES IN SOCIAL WORK 2015; 16:406-421. [PMID: 27683088 PMCID: PMC5036576 DOI: 10.18060/18372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Dramatic changes in the health system due to national health reform are raising important questions regarding the educational preparation of social workers for the new health arena. While dual-degree programs in public health and social work can be an important response to what is needed educationally, little is known about them. The National MSW/MPH Programs Study surveyed MSW/MPH program administrators to better understand the prevalence, models, structure, and challenges of these dual-degree programs. Forty-two programs were identified, and 97.6% of those contacted participated (n=41). Findings indicate that MSW/MPH programs are popular, increasing, geographically dispersed, and drawing talented students interested in trans-disciplinary public health social work practice. Challenges for these programs include the need for greater institutional support, particularly funding, and a general lack of best practices for MSW/MPH education. While findings from this study suggest graduates appear especially well-prepared for leadership and practice in the new health environment, additional research is needed to assess their particular contributions and career trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Betty J Ruth
- MSW/MPH Program, Boston University School of Social Work
| | | | - Jamie Wyatt Marshall
- Group for Public Health Social Work based at Boston University of Social Work, in Boston, MA
| | - Madeline Wachman
- Boston University Center for Innovation in Social Work & Health, in Boston, MA
| | - Esther E Velasquez
- Harvard School of Public Health and a pre-doctoral research fellow at Brigham and Women's University in Boston, MA
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Owens JM, Garbe RA. Effect of enhanced psychosocial assessment on readmissions of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2015; 54:234-251. [PMID: 25760490 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2015.1005269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In 2015, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 will mandate reduced Medicare reimbursements for hospitals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) readmissions that are higher than expected. Several studies identified social issues as a concern and possible contributor to readmissions. This study calculated readmission rates for patients with COPD following an enhanced psychosocial assessment. With 26 participants serving as their own historical controls, a paired t-test of the mean of admissions 90 days prior to the assessment and 90 days postassessment was conducted. The study group had a significantly lower number of readmissions in the 90 days postintervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Owens
- a Department of Medical Social Services , UnityPoint Health-St. Luke's Hospital , Cedar Rapids , Iowa , USA
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Cleak HM, Turczynski M. Hospital social work in Australia: emerging trends or more of the same? SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2014; 53:199-213. [PMID: 24628115 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2013.873516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Social work in health care has been established for more than 100 years and is one of the largest areas of practice for social workers. Over time, demographic changes and growth in the aging population, increased longevity rates, an explosion in rates of chronic illness together with rapidly increasing cost of health care have created serious challenges for acute hospitals and health social workers. This article reviews the Australian health care system and policies with particular emphasis on the public hospital system. It then examines current hospital social work roles, including the continued role in discharge planning and expanding responsibility for emerging client problems, such as patient complexity, legal, and carer issues. The article concludes with a discussion of evolving issues and challenges facing health social work to ensure that social work remain relevant within this practice context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen M Cleak
- a Social Work , La Trobe University , Melbourne , Victoria , Australia
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Spitzer WJ, Davidson KW. Future trends in health and health care: implications for social work practice in an aging society. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2013; 52:959-986. [PMID: 24255978 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2013.834028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Major economic, political, demographic, social, and operational system factors are prompting evolutionary changes in health care delivery. Of particular significance, the "graying of America" promises new challenges and opportunities for health care social work. At the same time, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010, evolution of Accountable Care Organizations, and an emphasis on integrated, transdisciplinary, person-centered care represent fundamental shifts in service delivery with implications for social work practice and education. This article identifies the aging shift in American demography, its impact on health policy legislation, factors influencing fundamentally new service delivery paradigms, and opportunities of the profession to address the health disparities and care needs of an aging population. It underscores the importance of social work inclusion in integrated health care delivery and offers recommendations for practice education.
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