The Healthy Start Department of the Florida Department of Health integrates public health and social work values and competencies in various capacities. Public health’s primary core values include preventing diseases and promoting the health and well-being of all. Within the Healthy Start Department, this initiative is accomplished by providing supportive services to mothers, babies, and families, ensuring that medical and social needs are met to help reduce poor birth outcomes and improve family health. Healthy Start utilizes social work ethics and principles on both micro and mezzo levels, such as the dignity and worth of individuals, by offering culturally competent services that understand diverse backgrounds and tailor services to client needs. The program emphasizes the importance of empowerment and human relationships by teaching clients to advocate for their own needs and utilizing a client-centered, strengths-based approach to meet clients where they are. Additionally, Healthy Start fosters collaboration through interdisciplinary teamwork alongside healthcare providers, community partners, and organizations for comprehensive support and services.
Special Placement Information:
The Agency accepts MSW 1st year and Advanced Standing Clinical Students.