The practice-research partnership: is it compatible with teaching?

Area of Science:

• Social Work
• Healthcare Research
• Interprofessional Collaboration

Background:

• Joint practice-research models involve social work students, faculty, and healthcare agencies.
• These collaborations aim to bridge practice and research in healthcare settings.
• Potential conflicts can arise from differing needs and priorities within these models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and discuss potential conflicts in joint social work practice-research models.
• To emphasize the necessity of developing funded research opportunities for social work in healthcare.
• To advocate for the advancement of social work research within the healthcare sector.

Main Methods:

• This is a commentary, not an empirical study.
• It involves a conceptual discussion of stakeholder needs and potential conflicts.
• It analyzes the requirements for advancing social work research in healthcare.

Main Results:

• Conflicts can emerge between the needs of social work students, faculty, and healthcare agencies.
• There is a significant need for dedicated funding to support social work research in healthcare.
• The social work profession requires strategic development to enhance its research capacity in health settings.

Conclusions:

• Addressing identified conflicts is crucial for the success of joint practice-research models.
• Increased funding and strategic development are essential for advancing social work research in healthcare.
• Strengthening the research base will enhance the contribution of social work to healthcare outcomes.