MW-TEC to Host Informational Webinar on Social Work Apprenticeship Opportunities

The Michigan Workforce Training & Education Collaborative (MW-TEC) will host an informational webinar at 10 a.m. April 23 discussing social work apprenticeship opportunities.

With a growing demand for behavioral health workers, apprenticeship programs can serve as part of the solution. Apprenticeship programs help employers build skilled talent pipelines, while supporting workers in their professional growth. They aid in filling crucial roles related to the Medicaid program by employing those with lived experience. The Michigan Works! program follows an “earn while you learn” model, which reduces financial barriers for participants wanting to enter the social work profession.

An apprenticeship program has been effectively established through the MW-TEC, with opportunities for expansion. MHA members are encouraged to join the webinar, which will provide more information on creating a registered apprenticeship with the Michigan Works! agency and finding funding resources for apprenticeships.

Members with questions may contact Lauren LaPine at the MHA.

MDHHS Distributes Funding to Michigan Universities to Support Behavioral Health Workforce

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently allocated $5 million to 12 Michigan universities to provide stipends to students pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) to Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program with a focus on behavioral health.

This initiative aims to address the growing demand for qualified professionals in the field and strengthen the pipeline of mental health practitioners in the state.

BSW students will receive a one-time stipend of $30,000 through the program. In exchange, they must commit to enrolling in a fulltime MSW degree program and agree to working for at least two years of full-time employment in public sector behavioral health in Michigan upon graduation. These stipends will enable up to 150 students to obtain their MSW degree.

The following Michigan universities received funding:

  • Andrew University
  • Eastern Michigan University
  • Grand Valley State University
  • Madonna University
  • Michigan State University
  • Northern Michigan University
  • Oakland University
  • Saginaw Valley State University
  • Spring Arbor University
  • University of Michigan
  • Wayne State University

Members with questions may contact Lauren LaPine at the MHA.

Webinar Detailing Virtual Care Models Approved for CE

The MHA is hosting the webinar Virtual Care Models that Improve Engagement and Support Staff from noon to 1 p.m. May 2. Representatives from Henry Ford Health and Trinity Health Grand Rapids will outline the design and interface of virtual care models among technology, care teams and patients; explain how to gain input and buy-in from leadership and staff; and share the outcomes that demonstrate the value of virtual care to the care team, patients and families. The webinar is approved for nursing and social work continuing education credit.

Virtual nursing is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, facilitating rapid and seamless communication between patients and nurses. Real-time virtual interactions enable patients to have their questions and concerns addressed promptly, leading to enhanced engagement and satisfaction with the healthcare team.

The webinar highlights the MHA Person & Family Engagement Roadmap, featuring research and tools supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Institute for Patient- and Family-Centered Care, which are proven to re-engage patients and improve person and family engagement. Registration is free to charge for MHA member organizations.

Members with questions about the MHA Person & Family Engagement Roadmap or webinar may contact Erin Steward at the MHA.