Erin File
Rasmussen College
Author Note This paper is being submitted on February 14, 2015, for Erin File’s HS100 Introduction to Human Services class.
Integration versus Generic Approach to Human Services I believe the first step to understanding the differences between these two approaches is learning the definition of Human Services. Human service jobs are those that provide a service to the community. They help individuals or families in a time of need such as, loss of income, need of food or housing or the need to get out of a dangerous situation, like abuse. These workers help their clients reach their maximum potential. Some examples of these jobs include: psychologist, licensed clinical social worker, welfare caseworker, health educator and probation officer. Of course there are many other jobs in this field, those are just a select few. The integration approach to human services is defined as mixing the various human services under one administrative system. This approach is simple to use. Many governments use this method, but they focus more on system budgeting rather than system change. I would say that the next topic I am going to talk about is goals of the integration approach. One is being to cover all services. Another is being to spread facilities located in areas of high population density. This approach needs to have a mixed administration that supports continuity of care from one service to another without wasting time. The big problem with the integration approach is that there is a lack of careful attention to the services it would provide for, and it may not go far. The generic approach to human services is when different databases do not talk to each other. This means that different staff members have no idea if you need multiple services. A characteristic of this approach is when services are delivered through an integrated services system. It also focuses on problem-solving