Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

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

Synopsis

An introduction to basic accounting principles for non-accountants. Financial issues confronting clinical managers including the understanding and interpretation of common accounting reports, budgeting and financial analysis. An introduction to basic economic theory relevant to clinicians and clinical managers, including funding health care services and economics evaluations that guide health care policy and decision making.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students should be able to:
Part 1

1. Recognise key accounting terms and language.
2. Illustrate how transactions that affect the economic position of a health care organisation are recorded.
3. Explain the construction of basic financial statements including balance sheets, income statements, and statements of cash flows.
4. Analyse and interpret the information contained in basic financial statements.

5. Demonstrate an understanding of different models for financing health services and the cost containment incentives and disincentives associated with each type of payment method.
6. Relate the principles of management control systems to financial issues in health care.
7. Demonstrate skills in building, analysing and using a budget.
8. Explain how to best optimise resource use, and appreciate the role of cost containment strategies.
9. Evaluate and appreciate the use of health economics as a tool for rational decision-making.
10. Critically appraise an economic analysis.
11. Identify the robustness of a pharmacoeconomic evaluation as viewed by Australian decision makers.

Assessment

Web-based tasks 50%
Written assignments 25%
Multiple-choice examination 25%.

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Kelly Makarounas-Kirchmann

Contact hours

15 contact hours over 2 block days

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.med.monash.edu.au/epidemiology/pgrad