Applying a Theory of Expertise in Health Social Work Administration and Practice in Australia

Abstract

Social workers in health care have been urged to identify the nature of their expertise and to articulate profession specific roles (Pecukonis et al., 2003). This article reports on the use of a theory of professional expertise (Fook, Ryan & Hawkins (2000)) in management and clinical practice within two Australian hospital social work settings. This theory, directly applicable to social work, was applied within these hospitals to differentiate levels in social work industrial awards, in staff selection, in supervision and continuing professional development. Specific and broader implications for application of this theory are discussed. AbstractSocial workers in health care have been urged to identify the nature of their expertise and to articulate profession specific roles (Pecukonis et al., 2003). This article reports on the use of a theory of professional expertise (Fook, Ryan & Hawkins (2000)) in management and clinical practice within two Australian hospital social work settings. This theory, directly applicable to social work, was applied within these hospitals to differentiate levels in social work industrial awards, in staff selection, in supervision and continuing professional development. Specific and broader implications for application of this theory are discussed.

Portrait of the Master Genetic Counselor Clinician: A Qualitative Investigation of Expertise in Genetic Counseling

“…The findings indicate that master genetic counselor clinicians share many characteristics of experts in related fields such as psychotherapy, social work, physical therapy and nursing (Adams et al 1997;Benner 1982;Jensen et al 1992;Nilsson et al 2007;Skovholt and Jennings 2004). For example, they share a holistic comprehension of complexity, can prioritize salient issues, are flexible and creative, and easily adapt to changing situations.…”

“…We developed a semi-structured interview guide (See Appendix) informed by literature in other healthcare fields (Adams et al 1997;Nilsson et al 2007;Jennings and Skovholt 1999) and in genetic counseling (e.g., Runyon et al 2010). Sixteen questions, with occasional prompts for clarification and elaboration inquired about participants' perceptions of distinguishing characteristics of master genetic counselors; necessary attitudes, values and traits; how master counselors develop; the impact of genetic counseling on the counselor; positive and negative experiences; inspirations and motivations; what constitutes success; and views of the work and the profession (the latter two topics are not part of this report).…”

“…The concept of "expertise" or "mastery" has been explored in various human services professions, including psychotherapy (e.g., Skovholt and Jennings 2004), social work (e.g., Nilsson et al 2007), nursing (e.g., Adams et al 1997;Benner 1982), and physical therapy (e.g., Jensen et al 1992), among others. Research in those fields suggests both personal characteristics, as well as personal and professional experiences, play a role in the professional development of the "best of the best" practitioners.…”

“…Despite the lack of standard definitions of terms, studies in fields which share certain similarities with genetic counseling (e.g., Adams et al 1997;Benner 1982;Jensen et al 1992;Nilsson et al 2007;Skovholt and Jennings 2004) demonstrate that practitioners viewed as experts possess certain common characteristics: 1) a multidimensional knowledge base developed through life and work experience, 2) an ability to recognize patterns within their clinical encounters, 3) a set of more elaborate cognitive skills than those professionals who are less developed, and 4) a strong motivation to continue learning. Additional similarities include openness, innovativeness, and creativity; a patient-centered and holistic view of one's patients and a strong commitment to and authentic interest in them; and attention to patients as multidimensional individuals with unique life contexts and psychosocial considerations.…”