Course Description
Study abroad course at introductory level learning about two or more health systems in the world. Comparisons of health systems will be made, identifying strengths and weaknesses; social, cultural, political, and economic determinants of health.
Athena Title
Global Health System - Nation
Non-Traditional Format
This course will involve field experience in parallel with lecture experience. Students will have 2 hours of field experience for every equivalent 1 hour of lecture. 22.5 lecture hours and 45 field hours.
Prerequisite
Third or fourth-year student standing
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 1. Understand components of a health care delivery system 2. Understand the key features of the United States health care system 3. Understand the key features of one or more health systems that are not the United States health care system 4. Compare the United States health care system to the health system(s) in one or more specific countries 5. Identify disparities and social, cultural, political or economic factors affecting healthcare, practice or outcomes 6. Understand basic concepts of “systems thinking”
Topical Outline
1. Basic components of a health system 2. What is the United States health system? 3. Learn about another health system: Structure 4. Learn about another health system: Components 5. Site visit: Ministry of Health 6. Site visit: Hospital 7. Site visit: Clinic 8. Explore another health system: Structure 9. Explore another health system: Components 10. Site visit: Local/Regional Health Department 11. What are social determinants of health (including environmental factors) and how do they impact health care and health systems? 12. Site visit: Senior living facility, school, community center 13. Site visit: Environmental site exploration 14. Site visit: University teaching public health 15. Future directions for health systems in nation focus
Syllabus