Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behaviors
The opioid crisis is one of the most dangerous and pressing problems in America. Often the cause of addiction to this substance is improper prescribing of medication to the patient. The video raises the issue of the competence of the medical staff.
Because of various aspects, for example, sympathy and attachment to the client, monetary interest, uneducated, and personal values, demonstrate unethical and unprofessional behavior. Professional ethics is one of the fundamental foundations of the work of experts. Every social worker should adhere to this model of conduct and ensure that their activities are rational.
Competency 2: Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice
People who become dependent on opioids may not expect or want them to. An example was one of the characters in the video, Michael, who went to his parents for help. Accordingly, the social worker needs to understand that such people are different from other addicts. It is necessary to consider in practical activity the variety of clients and their backgrounds.
Without knowing the origins of the problem and without the proper experience, one may encounter personal prejudices. These may be stereotypes about people who are dependent on drugs and their generally accepted characteristics.
The social worker needs to evolve in their practice and approach each patient individually. Supporting the client in becoming knowledgeable in this area, independent of the problem, is a fundamental aspect that encourages their aspirations.
Competency 3: Advance Human Rights, Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
Patients have a right to know about the devastating effects of drugs that contain opioids before a doctor prescribes them. There should be health education for all involved in the system. People should have social and economic rights that enable them to get help from the government if they are affected by this crisis.
The video also raises the issue of children, the elderly, and their families being left without any support. On the part of the government, they should be given any help to assist them in coping with the difficulties of adapting to their new lives.
Source: Understanding The Opioid Epidemic 2019 New Documentary 2019