Mentoring the Next Generation of Social Work Leaders in Palliative and End-of-Life Care (318-C)

Abstract

1.Recognize the critical need for emerging social work leaders in palliative and end-of-life care (PELC).2.Discuss a new educational model for training social work students and leaders in PELC.3.Discuss research results and potential for replication. Background. Reports by the Institute on Medicine and the National Association of Social Workers have documented a growing shortage of palliative and end-of-life care (PELC) social workers. Social workers receive little PELC training in their MSW programs, and there are no formal programs to train and mentor emerging leaders. PELC social workers are often isolated, leading many of them to leave the field. There is an urgent need for a new generation of social work leaders who can provide evidence-based care to patients and families. The Zelda Foster Studies in PELC is an innovative, multi-component (course work, mentorship, professional development) program, whose aim is to develop and mentor social work students and leaders. It includes a 4-year fellowship program for MSW students, a post-Masters program for early PELC professionals, and a new post-Masters leadership program for emerging PELC social work leaders. The program includes specific outreach to social workers from under-represented groups. Research objectives. Evaluate the program and disseminate findings. Methods. The learning model has roots in the empirical literature on leadership development and retention, and is grounded in relational pedagogy that emphasizes self-reflection, interpersonal relationships, praxis, and practice. Pilot data was collected during years 1 and 2 from surveys, focus group, and interviews with students, field supervisors, and mentors. Results. Three cohorts (n = 16) have been selected. Evaluations following Year 1 and 2 indicate the program had a successful start. Fellows report feeling supported and “energized” about working in PELC, have a deeper understanding of clinical practice and see mentoring as critical to their professional development. Conclusion. Preliminary indicators suggest that the ZF program is a successful model for enhancing the education of mentoring of new social workers in PELC. Implications for research, policy, or practice. Potential for replication of the model to meet the critical need for PELC social workers. Structure and Processes of Care