BME3032 - Introduction to the health system - 2018

This unit examines the ways in which the organisation and delivery of health services is structured. The broader context in which disease and illness occur is also discussed. The unit considers the Australian health care system in detail and the global context of health systems and health inequalities. It explores two areas: health policy and service delivery systems; and illness and health in the context of social, cultural and behavioural systems. Areas covered include: health systems, health policy, health funding, quality in health systems, models of health, population health, and health and human rights.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Understand key principles in the organisation and funding of health systems.
2. Be able to apply an understanding of health and health services in the context of the Australian health care system.
3. Recognise the key elements determining health policy.
4. Recognise key determinants and models of health.
5. Understand the complexities of improving population health and the ways in which this is evaluated.
6. Recognise the basis of human rights in health care.
7. Develop important professional skills, including those in oral and written communication, critical analysis, and interpersonal proficiencies.

• Tutorial preparation and participation (15%)
• Group presentation (15 minutes) and report (800 words) (20%)
• Research essay (2500 words) (25%)
• Written examination (MCQ/SAQ) (2 hours) (40%) (Hurdle)

6 hours per week: 2 hour seminar, 2 hour interactive tutorial and 2 hours of tutorial preparation time.

See also Unit timetable information

Biomedical science