Navigating the DBHIDS Learning Hub: Enhancing Behavioral Health Services in Philadelphia
The City of Philadelphia's Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS) is dedicated to providing comprehensive support through its network of providers. A key component of this commitment is the provision of ongoing training and technical assistance to behavioral health service providers, primarily facilitated through the DBHIDS Learning Hub.
DBHIDS and Provider Support
The Provider & Program Management (PPM) unit within DBHIDS plays a crucial role, providing oversight for the operational, programmatic, and fiscal aspects of the behavioral health system. To further enhance the capabilities of its network, DBHIDS offers a range of training opportunities designed to improve the quality and effectiveness of services.
The DBHIDS Learning Hub: A Central Resource for Training
The DBHIDS Learning Hub stands as a central resource, offering no-cost eLearning courses, webinars, and virtual classes specifically tailored for behavioral health professionals in Philadelphia. This platform is designed to be accessible and user-friendly, ensuring that professionals can easily enhance their knowledge and skills.
Accessing the Learning Hub
To begin utilizing the resources available on the DBHIDS Learning Hub, individuals must first create an account. This process involves completing a simple online form. Once registered, users gain access to a wide array of learning materials and opportunities. Recorded virtual trainings are also available on the DBHIDS Learning Hub.
Learning Hub Upgrade
To improve the experience for all DBHIDS Learning Hub users, the Learning Hub will be undergoing an upgrade. During the upgrade, the DBHIDS Learning Hub will be unavailable and all encrypted data - specifically user passwords - will be deleted.
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CBH Provider Training and Development
CBH Provider Training and Development works collaboratively with providers, through the technical assistance process, to create and implement individualized actions plans to address organizational goals. All training offerings are advertised through the CBH Provider News Blast. Please register here for the CBH Provider News Blast and to receive notification of our upcoming trainings. For more information, visit networksfortraining.org.
Evidence-based Practice and Innovation Center (EPIC)
The Evidence-based Practice and Innovation Center (EPIC) offers education and resources to support the selection, implementation and sustainability of evidence-based practices.
Staying Informed: The CBH Provider News Blast
To ensure that providers are well-informed about upcoming training opportunities, DBHIDS utilizes the CBH Provider News Blast. By registering for this news blast, professionals receive timely notifications about new training offerings and other relevant information.
Addressing Heat Safety: Resources for Providers and Staff
DBHIDS recognizes the importance of addressing environmental factors that can impact the health and well-being of individuals with behavioral health conditions. Exposure to excessive heat is dangerous and can lead to heatstroke - a medical emergency. Internal body temperatures can rise to levels that may cause irreversible brain damage and death. Children, older adults, and individuals with behavioral health conditions (especially those who are taking psychotropic medications or using certain substances) are at a higher risk for heatstroke and heat-related illnesses. These medications and substances can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate heat and an individual’s awareness that their body temperature is rising.
Heat Safety Policy and Resources
The DBHIDS HEAT SAFETY POLICY includes Philadelphia heat safety resources, training materials, handouts, posters, and heat safety checklists. Click to view the DBHIDS Heat Safety Policy.
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eLearning Course on Heat Safety
For DBHIDS provider agency staff and DBHIDS staff, an eLearning Course can be accessed via the DBHIDS Learning Hub. Instructions for DBHIDS contracted provider agency staff to create a Learning Hub account can be found here should they be needed. If you already have an account, please do not create a new one. Certificates will be available after eLearning course completion via the DBHIDS Learning Hub. See pages 1 and 2 of the Heat Safety Policy for further information about staff training. Click for the eLearning course.
Practical Tips for Staying Cool
In addition to formal training, DBHIDS emphasizes the importance of practical measures to prevent heat-related illnesses. These tips include:
- Drink lots of water: Eight glasses a day will keep you hydrated.
- Avoid coffee or alcohol: They cause your body to lose water.
- Dress cool: Wear loose, light-colored clothing and a hat during peak sunlight. Use sunblock of SPF 30 or greater.
- Call a neighbor: Have a friend or neighbor check on you twice a day during heat waves.
- Take cool showers
- Stay air-conditioned: If you don’t have air conditioning, seek it out at a friend’s house or the mall. If you can’t get out, stay on a lower floor where it’s cooler and open the windows. Take cool showers.
Recognizing the Signs of Heat Stroke
It is crucial to be able to recognize the signs of heat stroke, which include high fever, flushed face, throbbing headache, confusion, little or no perspiration, and rapid pulse. If these symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is necessary.
Who to Contact
If a Medical Emergency (e.g.
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