CPHSSWCE0446 - Disease Stigma

Course Description

Disease-related stigma is a well-documented barrier to healthcare access, engagement, and adherence across a wide range of health conditions. Although strides have been made in combating disease stigma, it remains a significant public health challenge. Gender, race, culture, socioeconomic status, and other determinants of health intersect to mitigate or exacerbate disease stigma. In this course, we will discuss the background and trajectory of several historically stigmatized diseases, including HIV/AIDS, mental health, cancer, and, more recently COVID-19, as well as the medical social worker’s role in identifying and combating disease stigma. 

Target Level Audience:  Intermediate

Course Outline

(00:10)  Course Outline and Review of Objectives 
(00:20)  Defining Disease Stigma 
(00:30)  HIV/AIDS 
(00:30)  Mental Illness 
(00:15)  Break 
(00:30)  Cancer 
(00:30)  Infectious Diseases/COVID-19 
(00:30)  Wrap-Up and Questions 

Learner Outcomes

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:  

• Define disease stigma, including the distinction between public and self-stigma; 
• Identify ways in which disease stigma impacts individuals’ access to medical care and ability to actively participate in their own healthcare; 
• Provide examples of historically stigmatized diseases and the impact of disease stigma on public health; and 
• Identify personal biases related to historically stigmatized diseases. 

When participants return to the workplace, they will be able to:  

• Identify disease-related stigma in the workplace; 
• Educate colleagues about ways in which personal biases about disease impact patient care; and 
• Implement research-informed interventions to combat disease stigma.