Integrated Care: Training the Next Generation of Social Workers

ABSTRACT

MSW students (n = 202) from four U.S. universities participated in a Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training program focused on integrated care with children and youth. Data were aggregated across programs to assess for improved scores on the Attitudes Towards Healthcare Teams Scale (ATHCTS). Students who identified as White reported significantly higher ATHCT scores at pre-test compared to students who identified as a racial or ethnic minority group. However, upon completion of the program, there were no statistically significant difference in post-test scores between White and racial and ethnic minority students. These findings suggest that specialized coursework and field experiences in integrated care can help erase any potential racial gaps in attitudes towards working in interprofessional teams.

Disclosure statement

We have no known conflict of interest to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

This project was supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under awards [G02HP27969, G02HP27974, GO2HP27945] Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training for Professionals and Paraprofessionals for $1,225,742, $511,084, and $1,178,261 (0% financed with nongovernmental sources). This information or content and conclusions are those of the authors and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Notes on contributors

Shauna P. Acquavita

Shauna P. Acquavita is Professor and MSW Director at the University of Cincinnati. Kelli Canada is Associate Professor and Associate Director of Research at the University of Missouri–Columbia. Bethany R. Lee is Professor at the University of Maryland. Sharon Johnson is Professor and Dean at the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Dana Harley is Associate Professor at the University of Cincinnati. Michele Beaulieu is Clinical Instructor and Director of Behavioral Health Education Programs at the University of Maryland. Suzanne Cary is Director of Field Education at the University of Missouri.