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RunningHead: ETHICS AND ANTI-OPPRESSIVE PRACTICE 1
ETHICS AND ANTI-OPPRESSIVE PRACTICE
Elisa Clayton Master of Social Work, Walden University
SOCW 6205: Medical Social Work II
Yvonne Elder Chase, PhD, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
December 24, 2023
ETHICS AND ANTI-OPPRESSIVE PRACTICE 2
Formal healthcare system contribution to the oppression of modern clients
The formal healthcare system may have contributed to the oppression experienced by the
client in this case in three ways. Firstly, the system's focus on immediate medical interventions and adherence to rigid protocols may have disregarded Robert's circumstances and priorities. Next, the lack of culturally competent care, as evidenced by Robert's skepticism towards the older white social worker, may have made him feel marginalized and unheard within the healthcare system (
Rosenberg, 2023). Lastly, it can perpetuate health disparities by failing to provide equal access to care for all individuals, regardless of their race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or other factors: systemic biases, lack of culturally competent care, and economic barriers to care. For example, a patient may receive a different quality of care due to their race or socioeconomic status, leading to poorer health outcomes (
Rosenberg, 2023).
Cultural humility and application of anti-oppressive practice
In this case, the social worker showed cultural humility and application of anti-
oppressive practice by acknowledging and respecting Robert's skepticism towards him as an older white man. The social worker recognized the power dynamics and understood trust needed to be built (
Tai, 2020). Communication openly and non-judgmentally, offering information and support without imposing his beliefs or strategies (
Tai, 2020). This approach made Robert feel heard and empowered in making decisions about his health. The social worker has demonstrated cultural humility and anti-oppressive practice by acknowledging and respecting the patient's cultural background and experiences, actively listening to patients' concerns, validating their experiences, and collaboratively developing a care plan that respects their cultural beliefs and practices (
Tai, 2020).
Advocate for the patient and others in similar situations as a medical social worker
ETHICS AND ANTI-OPPRESSIVE PRACTICE 3
An additional way to advocate for the patient and others in similar situations as a medical
social worker would be to address the systemic barriers and inequities contributing to their challenges. This could involve collaborating with community organizations and policymakers to advocate for affordable and accessible healthcare options, including coverage for smoking cessation medications like Chantix. It would also be essential to advocate for comprehensive support services, such as counseling and addiction treatment, to address the underlying factors contributing to Robert's tobacco and alcohol use (
Browne, 2019). Advocate for the patient by addressing the systemic barriers contributing to their oppression. Involve advocating for policy changes to improve access to care, providing resources to help the patient navigate the healthcare
system, or working with healthcare providers to enhance their cultural competence. For example,
a social worker might advocate for a policy that requires healthcare providers to receive training in cultural competence (
Browne, 2019).
●
Describe at least one ethical concern in the case and explain how you would address it. One ethical concern in this case is the potential conflict between the patient's desire for a quick
medication solution and the healthcare professional's duty to prioritize the patient's well-being and safety. While Robert seeks a medication that offers immediate results, the social worker and pharmacist must provide accurate information about the risks and benefits of different treatment options. In this case, the pharmacist appropriately advised against bupropion due to the potential risk of seizures in combination with alcohol use National Association of Social Workers, 2021). To address this concern, the social worker should continue to engage with Robert, providing ongoing support and education about alternative strategies for quitting smoking and reducing alcohol use while respecting his autonomy in decision-making (
National Association of Social Workers, 2021).
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