Guest blog post from WWC Clinical Scholar: Darlyn Miller, Teller County Public Health
Recently, I participated in a Level 2 course with the Patient Navigator Training Collaborative (PNTC), entitled, "Emotional Aspects of
Chronic Illness." The format of the course was entirely online and extended over an 8 week period. This course is also offered
through the School of Public Health for college credit. It was a time commitment, but to have
the opportunity to participate in this level of education and collaboration remotely, is a
privilege. The topics included Bias,
Culture and Values in Healthcare; Patient Response and Adjustment to Chronic
Disease; Empowering the Patient, Coping Strategies and Social Support; Basics
of Mental Illness and Crisis Management; and Impact of
Illness on Caregivers and Family Members.
As students, we explored our own biases, coping skills, and navigation
practices. We then learned new perspectives, tools, and ways of approaching the
individuals and families we work with on a daily basis. Some of the activities included application
of the concepts to our current practices, case studies, dialogue with other
students and the instructor, assessments, and other learning exercises. I would encourage everyone to look at what is
offered through PNTC to explore the opportunities that most closely apply to you and/or your colleagues. I found the course to be convenient, and beneficial to my practice and my role in WWC Clinical Services and Care Coordination.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions.
Darlyn Miller, RN, BSN, CCM | millerd@co.teller.co.us | 719-687-6416 | WWC Clinical Scholar
