A critical need to integrate services and strengthen training resources was identified and three Federal agencies (HRSA, SAMHSA and CDC) collaborated to address this need. The Cross-training Initiative was created to address the needs of the health care professionals and the changing demographics of the clients they serve. The demographics reflected significant disparities in disease incidence and mortality across minority communities. The training was designed to strengthen the network of resources available to clients. The goal is to build skills and cultural awareness for the diverse disciplines shared by health providers. With additional skills, cultural awareness and a strong network of resources access to the health care system may become less burdonsome and more "user friendly" for clients. Trainings have been conducted in the following areas: VA, CT, GA, NY, VI, WA, SC, and KY. A special focus for the future will be in areas where there is a high incidence of HIV/AIDS, and STDs, and vulnerable populations such as: women and infants, adolescents and young adults, minorities, persons entering the correctional facilities and populations in the Southern states.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presnetation participants will be able to: -Gain awareness about the connections between HIV/AIDS, TB, STDs, other infectious diseases, alcohol and other drug use -Recognize the benefits of collaboration that brings colleagues from diverse disciplines to participate in a mutual learning environment - Identify and discuss differences and similarities in values heald within the context of diverse disciplines (i.e. substance abuse, sexuality, HIV/AIDS and health)
Keywords: Training, Collaboration
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Training Curriculum is shared by HRSA, CDC and SAMHSA
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.