Health & social work
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The study discussed in this article investigated the relationship between access to firearms and parental monitoring on rural youths' exposure to gun violence and examined the effect of gun violence exposure on the mental health of these youths. A survey was administered to rural students who participated in a student assistance program (n = 162) that provided in-school support groups for students in grades 6 through 12. ⋯ Furthermore, gun violence exposure was significantly associated with trauma among the youths. Implications for social workers include advising high-risk clients and their families on gun removal and safe storage practices.
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Health & social work · May 2000
Adequacy of home care and hospital readmission for elderly congestive heart failure patients.
Readmission to acute care facilities is a frequent and costly problem among older adults with congestive heart failure (CHF). The study reported in this article tested the hypothesis that adequate home care, operationalized as patient-perceived adequacy of formal and informal assistance, is associated with lower readmission to acute care facilities. ⋯ Study findings point to the importance of home care in reducing the high risk of readmission among elderly patients. The findings raise implications for practice, policy, and research.
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Health & social work · Feb 1998
Against all odds: positive life experiences of people with advanced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
The study discussed in this article describes the nature of positive life experiences of 13 people coping exceptionally well while living with advanced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig's disease, and the resulting significant physical disability. The most powerful themes to emerge were the use of cognitive reappraisal, reframing, and intellectual stimulation as coping mechanisms; the development of wisdom; and the vital importance of interpersonal relationships. On the basis of our findings, we make suggestions for ways professionals can assist people with ALS and their significant others.
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Health & social work · Aug 1997
ReviewUniversal health care coverage in the United States: barriers, prospects, and implications.
Universal health care coverage has long been a concern for social workers. This article examines barriers to and prospects for universal coverage in the United States. ⋯ S. health care system, discusses the debate over Medicare and Medicaid, and considers possible routes to universal coverage. The article also discusses implications for NASW and other supporters of a single-payer system.