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Thibodeau P, Arena A, Wolfson H, Talamantes M, Albright K. "Working within broken systems": Social workers bridge the fractures of U.S. healthcare: A qualitative inquiry on moral injury. Soc Sci Med 2024; 358:117262. [PMID: 39208704 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.117262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Healthcare social workers (HSWs) in the United States are integral to interdisciplinary teams and health services. HSWs have a unique role in healthcare, as they care for their patients' psychosocial needs, through case management and clinical services. There is a gap in understanding how HSWs are impacted by their healthcare work. This study aims to understand the experience of moral injury, a marker of well-being, amongst HSWs in one state in the United States. Moral injury is the moral transgression (or boundary breaking) by oneself or someone in a position of power in high stakes situations and the negative outcomes of those experiences. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 HSWs in August of 2022. Thematic analysis was used to understand the lived experience of moral injury for HSWs. Three themes emerged: 1) HSWs' definition and examples of moral injury; 2) HSWs situated in the "in-between" of policy and practice; and 3) upholding social work values within the medical model. These findings impact healthcare practice and policy, in delineating what falls within the bounds of social work, changing the workflow of health services, and creating further opportunities for interdisciplinary training, well-being initiatives, and systems-level changes. The findings from this work highlight the importance of understanding the moral impact of healthcare work on social workers, which should be further examined in depth not only amongst HSWs but also across the healthcare workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pari Thibodeau
- University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 1890 N. Revere Court, Aurora, CO, 80112, USA.
| | - Aprille Arena
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, 2148 S. High Street, Denver, CO, 80210, USA
| | - Hannah Wolfson
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, 2148 S. High Street, Denver, CO, 80210, USA
| | - Michael Talamantes
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, 2148 S. High Street, Denver, CO, 80210, USA
| | - Karen Albright
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; OCHIN, Inc, PO Box 5426, Portland, OR, 97228, USA
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Berrett-Abebe J, Reed SC. Exploring the Relationship between Food Insecurity, Chronic Health Conditions, and Serious Mental Illness in the United States: Implications for Social Work. HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK 2024; 49:147-156. [PMID: 38822677 DOI: 10.1093/hsw/hlae012] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Food insecurity (FI) is a modifiable social determinant of health that impacts approximately 10 percent of the U.S. population. FI has been linked to poorer health outcomes and higher healthcare costs. Given the prevalence of chronic health conditions in the United States, including serious mental illness (SMI), the current study aims to better understand the relationship between FI and chronic conditions, including SMI, in a nationally representative sample. Authors analyzed data from the 2016 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey household component and food security supplement. Findings indicate the prevalence of FI among those with diabetes, lung disease, stroke, and SMI is higher than among the general population, with the prevalence for those with SMI being particularly high (43 percent of the sample). Logistic regression models indicate strong, statistically significant relationships between FI and chronic conditions, including SMI, as well as FI and two or more chronic illnesses, even when controlling for sociodemographic and health factors. There are likely bidirectional relationships between FI and chronic conditions. Findings have implications for social workers, in relation to prevention and treatment of SMI and FI through direct care, advocacy, and integrated services in health, mental health, and social services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Berrett-Abebe
- Julie Berrett-Abebe, PhD, is assistant professor, Department of Family Therapy and Social Work, School of Education and Human Development, Fairfield University, 1073 North Benson Road, Fairfield, CT 06824, USA
| | - Sarah C Reed
- Sarah C. Reed, PhD, MSW, MPH, is assistant professor, School of Social Work, California State University, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Petruzzi L, Smithwick J, Lee L, Delva J, Fox L, Wilkinson G, Vohra-Gupta S, Aranda M, Valdez C, Jones B. Community Health Work and Social Work Collaboration: Integration in Health Care and Public Health Settings: A Conceptual Framework. J Ambul Care Manage 2024; 47:187-202. [PMID: 38775666 DOI: 10.1097/jac.0000000000000498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Community health worker (CHW) and social worker (SW) collaboration is crucial to illness prevention and intervention, yet systems often engage the 2 workforces in silos and miss opportunities for cross-sector alignment. In 2021, a national workgroup of over 2 dozen CHWs, SWs, and public health experts convened to improve CHW/SW collaboration and integration across the United States. The workgroup developed a conceptual framework that describes structural, systemic, and organizational factors that influence CHW/SW collaboration. Best practices include standardized training, delineated roles and scopes of practice, clear workflows, regular communication, a shared system for documentation, and ongoing support or supervision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Petruzzi
- Author Affiliations: Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas (Drs Petruzzi, Valdez, and Jones); Center for Community Health Alignment, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina (Mss Smithwick and Fox); Knowledge Transfer Exchange Strategies, LLC, Corona, California (Dr Lee); Center for Innovation in Social Work Health, Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, Massachusetts (Dr Delva and Mr Wilkinson); Steve Hicks School of Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas (Drs Vohra-Gupta, Valdez, and Jones); Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California (Dr Aranda)
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Lombardi BM, de Saxe Zerden L, Fraher E. Varying Estimates of Social Workers in the United States: Which Data Source to Use? Med Care Res Rev 2024:10775587241257983. [PMID: 38864259 DOI: 10.1177/10775587241257983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Behavioral health needs continue rise in the United States and constitute a key driver of health care utilization, costs, and outcomes. Social workers provide a wide range of services across health, behavioral health, and community settings, and while this heterogeneity in practice benefits care delivery, it complicates health workforce analyses. This analysis compares five commonly used national data sources and details similarities and differences in their estimates of the number, type, and practice characteristics of social workers. The analysis suggests that estimates vary significantly between data sets ranging from 282,425 to 1,022,859 social workers; as well as yield different findings of types of social workers in the United States, depending on the data set used. These differences have the potential to shape how researchers and policy makers assess the adequacy of the social work workforce and identify solutions to address the nation's behavioral health and social care needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna M Lombardi
- School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- School of Social Work, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Lisa de Saxe Zerden
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- School of Social Work, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Erin Fraher
- School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Ohta R, Naito Y, Sano C. Mutually Supportive and Inclusive Societies Driven by Community Social Workers in Japan: A Thematic Analysis of Japanese Comics. Geriatrics (Basel) 2023; 8:113. [PMID: 37987473 PMCID: PMC10660671 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics8060113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Social isolation is a growing concern worldwide, particularly within aging populations. This study elucidates the specific attitudes, strategies, and approaches of community social workers (CSWs) in Japan as they work toward alleviating social isolation and building inclusive communities. This qualitative study, conducted in Toyonaka City, Osaka Prefecture, Japan, used six Japanese comics as a unique data source, narrating real-life stories of social isolation and CSWs' approaches. Thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the content of the comics, including systematic coding, theme generation, and refining, while ensuring rigor and reflexivity. The total number of pages in the comics was 505. The transcripts of the comics as Microsoft Word documents totaled 63 pages. Four themes characterizing CSWs' strategies were revealed: (1) core values of professionalism and dedication; (2) personalized support oriented toward person-centered suffering; (3) community engagement, transitioning from exclusiveness to inclusiveness; and (4) connecting and reorganizing communities for inclusive societies. In Japan, CSWs employ multifaceted strategies to combat social isolation and foster inclusive communities. Their dedication, personalized support, community engagement, and capacity to reorganize their communities contribute to their pivotal role. This study provides a foundation for understanding CSWs' work and paves the way for further investigation of their evolving role in creating inclusive societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuichi Ohta
- Community Care, Unnan City Hospital, 96-1 Iida, Daito-cho, Unnan 699-1221, Japan;
| | - Yumi Naito
- Community Care, Unnan City Hospital, 96-1 Iida, Daito-cho, Unnan 699-1221, Japan;
| | - Chiaki Sano
- Department of Community Medicine Management, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo 693-8501, Japan;
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Rao M, Greene L, Nelson K, Maciejewski ML, Zulman DM. Associations Between Social Risks and Primary Care Utilization Among Medically Complex Veterans. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:3339-3347. [PMID: 37369890 PMCID: PMC10682359 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08269-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social risks contribute to poor health outcomes, especially for patients with complex medical needs. These same risks may impact access to primary care services. OBJECTIVE To study associations between social risks and primary care utilization among patients with medical complexity. DESIGN Prospective cohort study of respondents to a 2018 mailed survey, followed up to 2 years after survey completion. PARTICIPANTS Nationally representative sample of 10,000 primary care patients in the Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system, with high (≥ 75th percentile) 1-year risk of hospitalization or death. MAIN MEASURES Survey-based exposures were low social support, no family member/friend involved in health care, unemployment, transportation problem, food insecurity, medication insecurity, financial strain, low medical literacy, and less than high school graduate. Electronic health record-based outcomes were number of primary care provider (PCP) encounters, number of primary care team encounters (PCP, nurse, clinical pharmacist, and social worker), and having ≥ 1 social work encounter. KEY RESULTS Among 4680 respondents, mean age was 70.3, 93.7% were male, 71.8% White non-Hispanic, and 15.8% Black non-Hispanic. Unemployment was associated with fewer PCP and primary care team encounters (incident rate ratio 0.77, 95% CI 0.65-0.91; p = 0.002 and 0.75, 0.59-0.95; p = 0.02, respectively), and low medical literacy was associated with more primary care team encounters (1.17, 1.05-1.32; p = 0.006). Among those with one or more social risks, 18.4% had ≥ 1 social work encounter. Low medical literacy (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.45-2.61; p < 0.001), transportation problem (1.42, 1.10-1.83; p = 0.007), and low social support (1.31, 1.06-1.63; p = 0.01) were associated with higher odds of ≥ 1 social work encounter. CONCLUSIONS We found few differences in PCP and primary care team utilization among medically complex VA patients by social risk. However, social work use was low, despite its central role in addressing social risks. More work is needed to understand barriers to social work utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayuree Rao
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA.
- General Medicine Service, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Liberty Greene
- Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, USA
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Karin Nelson
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- General Medicine Service, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Matthew L Maciejewski
- Durham Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Donna M Zulman
- Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, USA
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Zuchowski I, McLennan S. A Systematic Review of Social Work in General Practice: Opportunities and Challenges. JOURNAL OF EVIDENCE-BASED SOCIAL WORK (2019) 2023:1-41. [PMID: 37264677 DOI: 10.1080/26408066.2023.2202665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study identified the nature of social work practice in primary health care and described the reported patient outcomes, benefits, challenges, and enablers of social work in general practice [GP] settings. METHOD A systematic literature review applying the Prisma framework was conducted. RESULTS A total of 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. Social work practice in GP assists in delivering positive health outcomes for patients, improved patient care, offers value for money, and supports interdisciplinary teams. Identified challenges include funding impediments, organizational barriers, and a lack of understanding of and undervaluing the social work role. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The review outlined the benefits of social work practice in GP practices; however, these must be further evidenced. Funding for social workers in primary health care was identified as a challenge when it was lacking, and as an enabler when it was available. Further research to evidence the patient outcomes and overall benefits, the fiscal value of social work and funding pathways in primary health care is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Zuchowski
- Social Work and Human Services, College of Arts, Society and Education, James Cook University, Douglas, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Simoane McLennan
- Social Work and Human Services, College of Arts, Society and Education, James Cook University, Douglas, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
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Giamportone KE. Expectations of social workers for interprofessional practice in healthcare: qualitative insights from practicing physician, nurse, and social work professionals. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2022; 61:516-529. [PMID: 36475517 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2022.2154887] [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: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Expectations of the social work role within healthcare teams was explored utilizing perceptions of physicians, nurses, and social workers from a variety of healthcare settings and specialties. Thematic categories illuminated intraprofessional and interprofessional perceptions of experiences pertinent to the inclusion of social work services. Responsibilities for social work healthcare practice in specialist settings included providing assessments, counseling to address emotional and social wellbeing, assisting in coordination of systems, and management of systemic family issues. Traits expected of the social worker included expressing confidence, communication aptitude, and basic knowledge of medical terminology.
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Yang N, Zhang Y, Liu Z, Wang F, Yang G, Hu X. Influence of Social Workers' Empathy Ability on Suicidal Ideation of Cancer Patients. Front Public Health 2022; 10:925307. [PMID: 35968492 PMCID: PMC9364132 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.925307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The nursing goal of patients with cancer is to provide them with holistic care, including physical, psychological, and social adaptation, and spirituality. This research aimed to explore the influence of the social workers' empathy ability on suicidal ideation of patients with cancer and its path. Methods There was a sum of 358 patients with cancer and the 45 social workers serving them participated in the survey. Data of their self-efficacy, depression symptom, stigma, and suicidal ideation were measured before the social work provided (T1) and 3 months after the social work finished (T2) were collected and compared. Pearson correlation analysis was used to assess the relationships between social workers' empathy ability and patient indicators at T2. The influence path of social workers' empathy ability on cancer patients' suicidal ideation was explored by path analysis at T2. Results At T2, patients reported higher self-efficacy and lower depression symptoms, stigma, and suicidal ideation than at T1. At T2, social workers' empathy ability was positively related to patients' self-efficacy and was negatively related to depression symptoms, stigma, and suicidal ideation. Social workers' empathy ability affected patients' suicidal ideation directly. In addition, patients' self-efficacy, depression symptoms, and stigma played mediating roles in the influence of social workers' empathy abilities on their suicidal ideation. Conclusion Social workers' empathy ability not only directly affected cancer patients' suicide ideation but also affected suicide ideation through the mediating roles of self-efficacy, depression symptoms, and stigma. Therefore, the improvement of the empathy ability of medical social workers needs to be paid attention to.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningxi Yang
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine/West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuting Zhang
- Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhibo Liu
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine/West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guoqing Yang
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiuying Hu
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine/West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Bartlett DL, Schnur KM, Wilson AK, Moorman SS. Defining the micro and macro roles of a hemophilia treatment center social worker in the United States from an interdisciplinary team perspective. Haemophilia 2022; 28:e164-e171. [PMID: 35797008 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The social worker (SW) role in the Hemophilia Treatment Center (HTC) is complex and broad, providing direct support, spanning across micro, mezzo and macro levels of care. AIM Research demonstrates discrepancy between actual and ideal SW roles among the HTC SW community. Soliciting perceptions from HTC staff about the SW role can provide a deeper understanding of this discrepancy and improve collaboration amongst care team members in meeting the psychosocial needs of HTC patients. METHODS Funded by the National Hemophilia Foundation (NHF), a national online survey was conducted in 2020 to determine the views and attitudes of what the SW role is by HTC staff. Separate surveys were emailed to active HTC SWs and staff to collect anonymous data. Demographics of SWs gathered included age, education, years of practice, full time equivalent (FTE) status, and caseload. All disciplines were asked questions about perceptions, barriers, and potential ways to enhance and strengthen the SW role within HTCs. RESULTS Results demonstrated that subcategory-oriented questions (40 in total) and qualitative responses highlighted diverse viewpoints and offered clarity about these differences. CONCLUSION Findings indicated most HTC staff value the multi-faceted role of SW at their centres, and both groups identified time, limited resources, and role confusion as barriers to utilizing SW services. Outcomes will inform the development of a "standards of practice" tool that will provide education for HTC staff, patients, and families, and serve as an empowerment tool for SW to highlight their skillset and define their role.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathaleen M Schnur
- Hemophilia Center of Western Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amy K Wilson
- University of Minnesota Center for Bleeding & Clotting Disorders Hemophilia Treatment Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Spencer S Moorman
- Norton Children's Cancer Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
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Feryn N, De Corte J, Roose R. The DNA of Social Work as a Partner in Primary Health Care. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 37:407-418. [PMID: 34927558 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2021.2017381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
There is a strong focus on primary health care (PHC), as rooted in a commitment to social justice and equity, to reduce social inequalities in health. Within PHC, interprofessional collaboration is emphasized to achieve these objectives. Social workers are a renewed partner within these collaborations, as principles of social justice and human rights are the core of this profession. However, it is unknown if and how social work implements these principles in primary health care settings. This systematic literature review examined the existing literature on the role of social work in primary health care settings on themes of social justice. Our results emphasize how valuable the presence of social workers in primary health care is because of their broad perspective on health. At the same time, we also reveal a few points of concern, as their focus on social justice remains rather individual. This review suggests the strengthening of a social justice based approach in primary health care, which is an issue that should be shared with other healthcare professionals. We discuss implications for practice, research and policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nele Feryn
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Department of Social Work and Social Pedagogy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joris De Corte
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Department of Social Work and Social Pedagogy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rudi Roose
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Department of Social Work and Social Pedagogy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Löwe C, Mark P, Sommer S, Weltermann B. Collaboration between general practitioners and social workers: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e062144. [PMID: 36691249 PMCID: PMC9171253 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Aim of the study is to present an overview of collaboration structures and processes between general practitioners and social workers, the target groups addressed as well the quality of available scientific literature. DESIGN A scoping review following the guidelines of the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews). INCLUDED SOURCES AND ARTICLES According to a pre-published protocol, three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, DZI SoLit) were searched using the participant-concept-context framework. The searches were performed on 21 January 2021 and on 10 August 2021. Literature written in English and German since the year 2000 was included. Two independent researchers screened all abstracts for collaboration between general practitioners and social workers. Articles selected were analysed regarding structures, processes, outcomes, effectiveness and patient target groups. RESULTS A total of 72 articles from 17 countries were identified. Collaborative structures and their routine differ markedly between healthcare systems: 36 publications present collaboration structures and 33 articles allow an insight into the processual routines. For all quantitative studies, a level of evidence was assigned. Various measurements are used to determine the effectiveness of collaborations, for example, hospital admissions and professionals' job satisfaction. Case management as person-centred care for defined patient groups is a central aspect of all identified collaborations between general practitioners and social workers. CONCLUSION This scoping review showed evidence for benefits on behalf of patients, professionals and healthcare systems by collaborations between general practitioners and social workers, yet more rigorous research is needed to better understand the impact of these collaborations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER www.osf.io/w673q.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Löwe
- University Hospital / Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitat Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Patrick Mark
- University Hospital / Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitat Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Samira Sommer
- University Hospital / Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitat Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Birgitta Weltermann
- University Hospital / Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitat Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Pinto RM, Rahman R, Zanchetta MS, Galhego-Garcia W. Brazil's Community Health Workers Practicing Narrative Medicine: Patients' Perspectives. J Gen Intern Med 2021; 36:3743-3751. [PMID: 33826059 PMCID: PMC8642505 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-021-06730-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Narrative medicine (NM) encourages health care providers to draw on their personal experiences to establish therapeutic alliances with patients of prevention and care services. NM medicine practiced by nurses and physicians has been well documented, yet there is little understanding of how community health workers (CHWs) apply NM concepts in their day-to-day practices from patient perspectives. OBJECTIVE To document how CHWs apply specific NM concepts in Brazil's Family Health Strategy (FHS), the key component of Brazil's Unified Health System. DESIGN We used a semi-structured interview, grounded in Charon's (2001) framework, including four types of NM relationships: provider-patient, provider-colleague, provider-society, and provider-self. A hybrid approach of thematic analysis was used to analyze data from 27 patients. KEY RESULTS Sample: 18 females; 13 White, 12 "Pardo" (mixed races), 12 Black. We found: (1) provider-patient relationship-CHWs offered health education through compassion, empathy, trustworthiness, patience, attentiveness, jargon-free communication, and altruism; (2) provider-colleague relationship-CHWs lacked credibility as perceived by physicians, impacting their effectiveness negatively; (3) provider-society relationship-CHWs mobilized patients civically and politically to advocate for and address emerging health care and prevention needs; (4) provider-self relationship-patients identified possible low self-esteem among CHWs and a need to engage in self-care practices to abate exhaustion from intense labor and lack of resources. CONCLUSION This study adds to patient perspectives on how CHWs apply NM concepts to build and sustain four types of relationships. Findings suggest the need to improve provider-colleague relationships by ongoing training to foster cooperation among FHS team members. More generous organizational supports (wellness initiatives and supervision) may facilitate the provider-self relationship. Public education on CHWs' roles is needed to enhance the professional and societal credibility of their roles and responsibilities. Future research should investigate how CHWs' personality traits may influence their ability to apply NM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rahbel Rahman
- Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - W Galhego-Garcia
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry of Araçatuba, Estadual Paulista University, São Paulo, Brazil
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Cabin W. Pre-existing Inequality II: Social Workers Assess Impact of COVID-19 on Medicare Home Health Beneficiaries. HOME HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/10848223211020433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is significant data on the adverse impact of COVID-19 on persons who were poor, minorities, had compromised physical or mental health, or other vulnerabilities prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. A significant portion of the Medicare population has such vulnerabilities. The Medicare home health beneficiary population is even more vulnerable based on gender, race, income level, living alone status, and number of chronic conditions. A literature review indicated there were no studies on the impact of COVID-19 on Medicare home health beneficiaries. In a previous issue of this journal, the author addressed the literature gap by presenting a study on home care nurses’ perceptions of the impact of COVID-19 on Medicare home health beneficiaries. The current study is a companion qualitative study to the nurses’ study. It is based on interviews of a convenience sample of 52 home care social workers from 11 different home health agencies in New York City between April 1 and September 30, 2020. Seven major themes emerged, 6 of which were identical to the themes identified by the nurses. The only new theme was limits on the ability to provide psychosocial interventions had more severe consequences. The 7 themes were: need for social service supports increased; loneliness and depression increased among patients; physical and mental health conditions became exacerbated; substance use and abuse increased; evidence of domestic violence against patients increased; there was limited staff and equipment to care for patients; and limits on the ability to provide psychosocial interventions had more severe consequences.
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Auerbach DI, Levy DE, Maramaldi P, Dittus RS, Spetz J, Buerhaus PI, Donelan K. Optimal Staffing Models To Care For Frail Older Adults In Primary Care And Geriatrics Practices In The US. Health Aff (Millwood) 2021; 40:1368-1376. [PMID: 34495726 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2021.00401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Different staffing configurations in primary and geriatric care practices could have implications for how best to deliver services that are essential for a growing population of older adults. Using data from a 2018 survey of physicians (MDs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) working in primary and geriatric care, we assessed whether different configurations were associated with better or worse performance on a number of standard process measures indicative of comprehensive, high-quality primary care. Practices with a large concentration of MDs had the highest estimated labor costs. Practices high in NPs and physician assistants (PAs) were most common in states that grant full scope of practice to NPs. The high-NP/PA configuration was associated with a 17-percentage-point greater probability of facilitating patient visits and a 26-percentage-point greater probability of providing the full bundle of primary care services compared with the high-MD model. Team-based configurations had a 27.7-percentage-point greater probability of providing the full bundle of primary care services. The complex needs of older adults may be best served by team-based practices with a broad provider mix that can provide a range of services in the office and the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- David I Auerbach
- David I. Auerbach is an external adjunct faculty member at the Center for Interdisciplinary Health Workforce Studies, College of Nursing, Montana State University, in Bozeman, Montana, and is senior director for research and cost trends at the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission, in Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Douglas E Levy
- Douglas E. Levy is an associate professor in the Health Policy Research Center, Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, in Boston
| | - Peter Maramaldi
- Peter Maramaldi is a professor in the School of Social Work, Simmons University, in Boston
| | - Robert S Dittus
- Robert S. Dittus is the Albert and Bernard Werthan Professor of Medicine at Vanderbilt University; chief innovation officer and senior vice president for the Vanderbilt Health Affiliated Network; and director of the Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center at the Veterans Affairs Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, in Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Joanne Spetz
- Joanne Spetz is director and Brenda and Jeffrey L. Kang Presidential Chair in Healthcare Finance at the Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies at the University of California San Francisco, in San Francisco, California
| | - Peter I Buerhaus
- Peter I. Buerhaus is a professor of nursing and director of the Center for Interdisciplinary Health Workforce Studies, both in the College of Nursing, Montana State University
| | - Karen Donelan
- Karen Donelan is the Stuart H. Altman Chair in U.S. Health Policy at the Heller School for Social Policy and Management, Brandeis University, in Waltham, Massachusetts. At the time this work was performed, she was a senior scientist at the Health Policy Research Center at the Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, and an associate professor in the Department of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, in Boston
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Schönfelder W, Eggebø H, Munkejord MC. Social care for older people - a blind spot in the Norwegian care system. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2020; 59:631-649. [PMID: 33213291 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2020.1847747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of older people in Norway receive care services at home. Public policy aims at promoting social safety, preventing social problems and providing recipients of care with the means to live an active and meaningful everyday life together with others. However, health-related services have long been prioritized at the expense of other care services. Our aims are to investigate how professional caregivers in Norwegian home care for older people relate their professional mandate to social care to assess what different professional positions regarding social care imply for realizing the ideal of integrated and person-centered care. Interviews with 16 professional caregivers are analyzed within the framework of positioning theory. A variety of discursive positions relating the own professional mandate to social care are identified. Findings suggest that the absence of common standards leaves it up to the individual caregiver if social care needs are met or not. Common standards for social care delivery and a more suitable skill mix among health and social care professionals are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Schönfelder
- Department of Child Welfare and Social Work, UiT the Arctic University of Norway , Tromsø, Norway
| | - Helga Eggebø
- Nordland Research Institute, Universitetsallen 11 , Bodø, Norway
| | - Mai Camilla Munkejord
- Department of Business Administration, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences , Bergen, Norway
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