Embarking on this capstone journey I not only brought invaluable public health competencies that I learned throughout my program, but I also had the chance to refine them and foster growth in competency areas that were less developed. In the next several pages I will discuss both the competencies brought to the project and those gained through the project.
What I Brought to the Table The first competency that was put to the test was BPHS/CC 6 – communicate effectively both in writing and orally. The of Master Public Health program at Colorado State University well prepared me for this task with the varied and rigorous coursework requirements over the past year. The overall design of the program adequately balanced written and …show more content…
Proficiency of these competencies is essential in the field of global health and health disparities. Not for everyone, they require a unique lens for garnering the appropriate perspective of the public health issue in question. With a strong anthropological background, coupled with appropriate coursework in the public health program, I was able to bring this valuable asset to HIV Alliance and their dental program. During dialogue with the dental case manager I wore this unique hat and was in search of such underpinnings that, presumably unknowingly, created barriers to segments of their client base. While the dental program was operating effectively, that depended upon whose eyes the effectiveness was viewed from – in this case predominantly English speaking clients. I was able to utilize my public health skills and identify certain ethical issues that were present and identify barriers instilled due to power, privilege, and structural inequality. Consequently, the capstone project of a bilingual assessment tool was constructed to reduce such health …show more content…
The target population for this project happen to be stigmatized and marginalized on a multitude of levels. First, the population is subject to unwarranted public backlash due to their positive HIV status. Income levels at or below poverty levels further instill barriers. Low educational attainment further exasperates such issues. Lastly, clients lacking legal residency status and non-English speakers have additional difficulties. Walls that create such barriers can be removed when, as in the case with Lane Community College Dental Clinic, professional programs and practices are developed with a true comprehension and compassion for all members of society. This, however, is not commonplace throughout much of society and yet it should become the