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In this Issue
Tech & Tools
Beyond Office Hours
A new app and patient portal from the University of Michigan will give patients mobile access to health records. MyUofMHealth.org offers a self-service system for patients to view health history, renew prescriptions, and message doctor’s offices around the clock.
Learn more »
 
Editor's E-Note
According to the Office of Minority Health, cultural competency is one the key factors in closing the healthcare disparities gap. It allows patients and healthcare providers to discuss health concerns without cultural differences hindering the conversation. Healthcare services that respect and respond to the health beliefs, practices, and cultural needs of diverse patients can help ensure positive health outcomes.

Nowhere is the need for cultural competency more acute than among American Indians. Our E-News Exclusive explains why the need is so great and how more American Indians entering the field of social work can enhance cultural competency and improve health outcomes among this underserved population.

We welcome your comments at SWTeditor@gvpub.com. Visit our website at www.SocialWorkToday.com and join our Facebook page.

— Marianne Mallon, editor
E-News Exclusive

More American Indians Needed in Social Work
By Lindsey Getz

According to the Indian Health Service, American Indians have higher death rates from causes such as alcoholism, tuberculosis, diabetes, accidents, suicide, and homicide than other Americans, and their life expectancy is six years lower than the U.S. average. Unfortunately, despite these health concerns, there remains an unmet need for more American Indians to enter health or social care professions.

According to the Council on Social Work Education, only 1% of all social work graduates are American Indians. The lack of American Indian social workers is a major hurdle in reaching this population considering their role in crossing the cultural divide. Fortunately, there have been efforts to make changes. At the College of St. Scholastica, a grant to fund the social work education of at least 17 American Indian students across northern Minnesota campuses will play a role in bridging the gap.

Challenges in Higher Education
American Indians pursuing higher education often face numerous challenges, including economic and social inequities that make the pursuit of higher education difficult. Even their worldview can pose challenges.

Full Story »
Other Social Work News
Research Links Race, Ethnicity
to Sleep Problems
The New York Times reports on research showing race and ethnicity is affecting sleep that could bring insights into higher rates of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes.

Survey Shows Nearly One-Half of Doctors Have Burnout Symptoms
According to USA Today, a Mayo Clinic survey has shown that almost 50% of physicians reports symptoms of burnout.

School Nutritionists Learn to ‘Sell’ Healthful Food Choices to Kids
The Huffington Post reports on school nutritionists who don't want the foods included because of new federal guidelines to end up in trash.

Cultural Traditions
at the End of Life
Los Angeles Times columnist Steve Lopez reports on attending a bioethics conference and what he learned about spirituality, culture, and tradition at the end of life.
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Synthetic Drugs — Fake Substances, Real Dangers
With many of these drugs still legal and easily available, the risks of physical harm and death are rapidly rising. Read more »

Messages From 24/7 Care Persons
Approaching a care person to offer help is a sensitive subject and must be handled carefully. Interviews with care persons are highlighted to show what may work best. Read more »

The Ethical Implications of Online Social Work Education
Online social work education programs are expanding. These programs pose numerous vexing ethical questions that warrant careful consideration and scrutiny. Read more »
Nominate a Dedicated & Deserving Social Worker
Nominations close on Friday, October 5, 2012

To salute dedicated and deserving social workers from various career paths, Social Work Today magazine will select and honor 10 professionals nominated by their colleagues and/or coworkers who are our readers.

Nomination Criteria:
  1. A social worker who has gone above and beyond his or her job description to make an extraordinary difference for his or her clients, community, or employer
  2. A social worker who, over time, has achieved a exceptional standard of excellence in the field
  3. A social worker who has overcome significant challenges in his or her career, risen to new heights of success, and had an outstanding positive impact on others
  4. Nominees must have at minimum a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work
  5. Nomination essays must not exceed 300 words
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Simply read an issue of the magazine, complete the online exam or the printed exam published in the magazine, and earn 2 CE credits! PLUS, you have the opportunity to earn CE credits from past issues, too! See what all the talk is about. Visit www.SocialWorkTodayCE.com today for more information!
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