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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Tammy Thomas, MSW, MPH, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, 221 Parran Hall, 130 Desoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, 412-624-8139, tltst26@pitt.edu and Brenda N. Henry, MSW, Graduate School of Public Health, Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, 209 Parran Hall, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261.

The definition of human rights has evolved over time. A review of the literature reflects at least three generational definitions of human rights. While there may be debate on what various constructs should be included in the definition of human rights, the underlying intent has been to assure that individuals have a “standard of living adequate for [their] health and well-being.” The elimination of health disparities and the promotion of good health, the guiding principles of the public health social work profession, is essential in assuring human rights. The literature, both internationally and nationally, indicates there is still a tremendous need for intervention.

This presentation will focus on the integration of two specific tools that are essential in guiding public health social work in its mission of guaranteeing human rights. These two tools are the Public Health Social Work Standards & Competencies and Healthy People 2010. Because the major emphasis in public health social work has traditionally been in the Maternal and Child Health arena, this presentation will examine how the use of the competencies is instrumental in achieving the goals of the Maternal and Child Health objectives. Additionally, we will provide recommendation for further practice. While this presentation uses MCH as an example, it is intended to promote the use of the standards and competencies in achieving the over-aching goals of Healthy People 2010. By increasing quality and years of healthy life and eliminating health disparities, we ultimately assure human rights to all.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss how the Public Health Social Work Standards & Competencies can be used to address the Healthy People 2010 goals
• Increase the presence of public health social work in the dialog on human rights
• Identify the importance of the Public Health Social Work Standards & Competencies in the work of public health social work

Keywords: Social Work, Minorities

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation