Meeting the Challenge of Preparing Social Workers for Integrated Health Practice: Evidence From Two MSW Cohorts

ABSTRACT

Changes in health care policy have led to an expansion of integrated care models that rely on collaboration among interprofessional health teams. Recent federal funding has encouraged the development of innovative training models to prepare social workers for integrated health practice. This article presents evidence from the first two MSW cohorts of the Integrated Mental and Behavioral Health Training Program funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration. Twelve students completing the program in 2014 (n = 5) and 2015 (n = 7) participated in evaluation activities at the time of program completion and at 1-year postgraduation. Findings highlight key components of the training program instrumental in student attainment of program goals and competencies. Implications for MSW education and training for practice in integrated care environments are discussed.

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 M01-2520, Mental and Behavioral Health Education and Training Grant & G02-28009, Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training Grant. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author 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.

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 M01-2520, Mental and Behavioral Health Education and Training Grant & G02-28009, Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training Grant. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author 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

Carrie W. Rishel

Carrie W. Rishel is Professor of Social Work and Helen P. Hartnett is Associate Professor of Social Work at West Virginia University.

Helen P. Hartnett

Carrie W. Rishel is Professor of Social Work and Helen P. Hartnett is Associate Professor of Social Work at West Virginia University.