CRH1002

Rural health politics and policies ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr Elica Ristevski & Mr S Kirkbright

Offered:
Gippsland Second semester 2006 (OCL)

Synopsis: This unit aims to equip students with policy analysis skills that will help them understand the policy processes that impact on the development and implementation of rural health service systems and models of service delivery. Various theoretical perspectives will be used to examine the policy process, the actors in the political system, the decision making process, and implementation and evaluation of rural policies. Students will explore the measures required to meet the future challenges of rural health ad rural health services.

Objectives: On completion of the unit students should be able to: 1. Examine the difference between the political process and the policy process in the development of rural health services; 2. Use theoretical perspectives to analyse the policy process and the political process in rural health; 3. Critically examine the methods through which the policy process can be influenced by actors in the political system; 4. Describe the decision making models and processes used in the policy and political process; 5. Communicate an understanding of the process involved in implementing and evaluating rural health policies; and 6. Discuss the measures required to meet the future challenges of rural health and rural health services.

Assessment: Portfolio 2,500-3,000 words (50%) + Position paper 1,500-2,000 words (20%) + Discussion group - approx 1,000-1,500 words (30%).