My name is Katie Kauffman and I am the Social Worker for PACC.

When asked to write this blog post, I was coming out of a tough week (as many of us face in our work) and hopefully can shed some light on the impact not only we as medical providers have, but also the impact our patients have on us.

I have been working as a social worker for over 12 years and have spent at least half of that time here at HealthNet in one capacity or another. I have the privilege now to provide care and support to our most vulnerable population, pediatrics and adolescents at PACC.

In my work we face varying degrees of needs and situations with our patients.  One of the many wonderful things about HealthNet is we often see people from birth, at the start of a new and exciting time in a family’s life, to the toughest of days. Among the increased needs of our patients, the increased caseloads we carry as social workers, the most important part of what I do every day, is stopping and listening.  Coming to this organization every day and checking in with patients, assisting them with referrals to community resources for the most basic of needs, to sharing a laugh or a struggle with a co-worker is a most humbling experience and one I never take for granted.

Often times the term “social worker” leaves many wondering what that title or role involves. Unfortunately, with that role comes the tough part of my job, the part that no one enjoys. My number one priority is to always be an advocate for my patient. My patients are helpless, innocent children and ensuring their safety and that their basic needs are met is always a focus of mine. Providing resources and connecting patients with outside agencies is a big part of what I do. A number of community agencies we have close working relationships with include, Catholic Charities, The YMCA, and Indiana Legal Services, to name just a few. I also work closely with Department of Children Services and have often been called to court to speak on behalf and advocate for our patient’s needs.

At the core of what we do is care. We also strive to understand where our patients are coming from and providing empathy for the road they are traveling, at whatever stage of life they are in.

Our patients face change and unpredictability on a daily basis. We as medical caregivers and providers at HealthNet can be the one stability for them. That is something I strive to be for the people I serve.

Post by Katie Kauffman

Dr. Kenton Hilbish answers a few questions to help give some insight into his experience at the PACC:

HN: What was your first impression when you found out you were assigned to the Pediatric & Adolescent Care Center (PACC)?

Dr. Hilbish: It has been a rewarding experience working at the PACC.  I did not know what to expect when I found out I was assigned to the PACC for continuity clinic, but all resident reactions were immediately positive.  I definitely agree with their positive impression of this clinic.  The PACC offers a diverse patient experience.

HN: Tell us more about the diverse patient experience there. What has that taught you?

Dr. Hilbish: We provide care for many underserved populations including, Hispanic, African American, and Burmese patients.  The diversity of the patients has increased my cultural sensitivity and awareness.  It has helped me to customize my patient care to the different expectations and needs of the various patient populations.   This experience has carried over to my care in the other capacities in which I serve as a resident.

HN: What is a typical week like for you at the PACC?

Dr. Hilbish: The PACC is a very busy clinic both in patient numbers and residents who work there.  The large number of patients provides exposure to many different illnesses and creates a vast patient care experience.  My patient panel will typically include a few well-child checks with follow-up and sick visits mixed in each week.  The patient complaints vary from a child with significant disabilities to the common cold.  I believe this wide exposure will serve me well in the future.

HN: Can you tell us more about how PACC staff and your fellow residents create a learning environment?

Dr. Hilbish: The staff and residents have been great.  It is interesting to get the various staff perspectives or opinions of how they manage different illnesses.  The additional staff are also a great resource for a second opinion when it is needed.  All of the staff are excellent teachers and truly seek to combine patient care with a great education.  Working with so many of the other residents has been a great resource as well.  It has provided great friendships and allows us to discuss not only patient care in the clinic but for resident life as well.

HN: Can you sum up your experience so far, and how you will stay connected with the PACC in the future?

Dr. Hilbish: My experience at the PACC has been great.  They clearly provide a critical service to the local community and have influenced the lives of many children and their families.  The PACC provides comprehensive care and truly seeks to care for the patients and their families entirely and not just their acute illness.  I am proud to be a part of the PACC and look forward to the rest of my time there.  I know the lessons and experiences I have at the PACC will continue to be an important part of my career.

Congratulations PACC staff & residents, past and present!  Three years of quality care! Giving a care about the underserved in Indianapolis.