ABSTRACT
The current study explored social work skills and competencies required for work on integrated health care teams. Semi-structured, qualitative individual interviews were conducted with social workers employed in integrated health care settings. Key themes emerged around existing social work strengths, further training that is needed for this work, and fundamental skills for effective team-based collaboration. Incorporation of content, such as the social work role in integrated health care settings, advocacy in team-based treatment delivery, and incorporating medical knowledge into the social work curriculum are key to strengthening the future workforce. Education strategies can include not only infusion of integrated health care material into existing courses but also micro- and macro-specific elective courses and a range of interprofessional learning opportunities.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Mary Lehman Held
Mary Lehman Held is an Assistant Professor at University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Denise R. Black
Denise R. Black is Adjunct Instructor at University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Kate M. Chaffin
Kate M. Chaffin is Director, MSSW Nashville and MSSW Online Program, Associate Professor of Practice at University of Tennessee.
Kim Crane Mallory
Kim Crane Mallory is Coordinator of Field Education, MSSW Program – Nashville Campus, Assistant Professor of Practice at University of Tennessee.
Allison Milam Diehl
Allison Milam Diehl is Individual & Family Counselor, Hope Program Counselor, Catholic Charities of Middle Tennessee.
Sherry Cummings
Sherry Cummings is Associate Dean for Academics, Professor at University of Tennessee.