This training will introduce the CARES Program at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and how it supports patients’ comprehensive wellness needs. Participants will identify the Eight Dimensions of Wellness, recognize patient wellness within the Social Ecological Model, develop awareness of the Social Determinants of Health, define the role of a Social Worker within healthcare settings, and learn steps to refer to community partners to best serve dental patients.

At the completion of the program, participants should be able to:

• Identify the eight Dimensions of Wellness and how they may influence patient behaviors
• Recognize patient wellness within the Social Ecological Model, in order to encourage referrals to Social Workers and other community partners
• Develop awareness of the Social Determinants of Health, which may influence the success of dental treatments
• Define the role of a Social Worker, in general and within dental treatment settings
• Learn about the services of the UB School of Dental Medicine’s CARES Program and how it may support patients’ identified wellness needs
• Review steps to refer to Social Workers and other community partners

Sharlynn Daun-Barnett is the CARES Program Coordinator for the University at Buffalo (UB) School of Dental Medicine. The CARES (Counseling, Advocacy, Referral, Education and Service) Program was created in 2001 to reduce barriers to oral health care. In this role, Ms. Daun-Barnett coordinates the daily operations of this social work support program, including supervising MSW student interns, providing patient interventions, and supporting holistic patient health care. Ms. Daun-Barnett received her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. She is a nationally board-certified health and wellness coach, a certified Koru Mindfulness and Meditation teacher, and a SPCA “Paws for Love” dog therapy volunteer. From 2008 – 2022, Ms. Daun – Barnett worked in the Health Promotion Office at UB. From 2002 – 2008, she was a Health Coach in Ann Arbor Michigan and Clinical Social Worker for the University of Michigan Health System.

Originally Recorded 04/26/2024, expires 04/26/2027