BMS3052

Health systems and management

6 points · 3 lectures per week and 3 hours practical or equivalent · Second semester · Clayton

Objectives On completion of this subject, students will have a sound understanding of the organisation and working interrelationships of the Australian health care system. Students will gain an understanding of the provision and funding of health services and the levels of responsibility of different health care providers. They will also understand the implications that arise from the division of responsibility for payment of health services. In this context, students will understand the role of community-based programs, general practice, hospitals, allied health professionals and pharmacy. Basic health economics will be considered including the important concepts of equity and access to health care. The social and ethical issues of resources management will be examined. The planning and implementation of health policy will be considered. Students will have a sound understanding of the methods of quality assurance and its consequences in the health care system.

Synopsis The Australian health care system. The funding, organisation and levels of responsibility within the health care system. The allocation of health care costs and its implications. The role of different providers in the health care system. An introduction to health economics and a consideration of equity and access issues. Social and ethical issues in health resources management. Health policy and planning. Quality assurance in health care.

Assessment Written examination: 50% · Tutor's assessment: 20% · Essay: 30%

Prescribed texts

To be advised

Back to the 1999 Medicine Handbook