Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

HSC1052 provides an introduction to health care systems (local and global), including their relations to policy, politics and the interaction of the system with the health needs and outcomes of populations and individuals. The unit also utilizes relevant current events to generate discussion and debate around policy approaches to specific issues and the politics of health and social care.

Objectives

1. Explain aspects of health and social care systems within specific communities (local and global).
2. Analyse health systems comparatively, including their political underpinnings, and the role of politics and policy in determining the architecture of health and social care systems.
3. Explain the role of health and social care systems in addressing equity and inequity in health and wellbeing.
4. Relate political and social systems to the existing structure, functions and funding of health and social care systems
5. Critique the role of health and social care systems in addressing broader socio-economic inequity, at local, national and global levels.

Assessment

1. Written assignment (1,000 words) presenting socio-demographic and health systems data for a specific local area (20%)
2. Group presentation (20 minutes) addressing the circumstances, options and accessibility to services of case study 'families' (20%)
3. Written assignment (2,500 words) on health and social care systems and their relationship to equity and inequity in health outcomes (45%)
4. Weekly Quiz (15%)

Hurdle requirements: 80% attendance at tutorials unless medical or other certification provided and completion of in-class activities.

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Charles Livingstone

Contact hours

12 hours per week including contact time (1 hour lecture, 2 hour tutorial) and self directed learning.