This study reviewed five international competency development studies to explore directions for competency development among health social workers trainees. The main findings were as follows: First, the competencies reflected in Korea's health social ...
This study reviewed five international competency development studies to explore directions for competency development among health social workers trainees. The main findings were as follows: First, the competencies reflected in Korea's health social worker training curriculum were similar to the competency derived from the overseas literature. Second, the competency framework for health social workers needed to be systematically developed to include basic competencies, competencies based on skill levels, and competencies specific to major healthcare settings and disease areas. Third, it was necessary to develop detailed competencies related to advocacy, system analysis, linkage, and development. Forth, before entering the field as a health social worker, education was needed to foster an understanding of the healthcare environment and insight into the role and identity of social workers within healthcare settings. Fifth, to strengthen the competencies of health social workers in integrated healthcare environments, it was essential to develop an understanding of the evolving healthcare paradigms and to enhance helathcare practical competencies.