Implementing the role of a Workforce Clinical Educator for inpatient and ambulatory social work teams to effectively enhance education and upskilling of practicing clinicians.

Abstract

Background: Since January 2024, the inpatient Social Work (SW) leadership team has introduced the role of a Workforce Clinical Educator (WCE) for a dedicated educator to upskill and support junior and new staff transitioning into public health care setting. We recognised that COVID had impacted on the skillset this workforce brings into clinical practice. WCE role is specifically developed to provide support in skill development to deliver evidence-based SW intervention within Monash Health. Aims: This program aims to address learning gaps and provide “hands on” at the bedside education; hence the introduction of WOWIE (Watching Others Work in Environments) program, that in turn will contribute to positive patient outcomes. We want to improve clinician skillset and knowledge, focusing on core SW skills and position within a multidisciplinary team that make the SW profession unique. Methods: By utilizing a mixed methods study inclusive of focus groups, surveys, comparison data and observations, we aim to establish the effectiveness of this role on both the participants and wider SW department with further desire to extend the role to provide targeted training to other classification of social workers. Results: The initial implementation has demonstrated that the WCE role is beneficial and provides an enriching learning experience to Grade 1 Social Workers. Few notable outcomes are the collegiality formed within the peer group which is beneficial to staff retention and job satisfaction; the consistent platform it provided for dissemination of streamlined processes and practices, and the confidence of delivery of safer and effective care to our patients. Discussions/Conclusion:WCE can develop, implement and evaluate professional development and competency-based education to support effective SW interventions, and there’s capacity to further map existing workforce clinical skills to future skillset requirements. The role can further lead and coordinate orientation protocols for all staff and contribute more constructively to clinical care,