Health Equity

1 Unit · Graduate

This course provides an overview of social, economic and political inequities in the United States and their impact on the health of the poor, uninsured, elderly, racial and ethnic minorities, migrants, gendered and sexual groups, rural residents, people with mental and physical disabilities and other vulnerable and socially disadvantaged populations. Past and current policies and trends in health /medical care programs and services at the local and national levels will be discussed. Students will examine social science concepts and theoretical frameworks that will expand their knowledge and skills and empower them to become agents of social change using public health models to impact individuals, families, communities and institutions. Class topics and discussions will centered on: social and income inequalities; access (or lack of) to healthcare, including preventive services and other social resources; roles of government and the legislative process; quality care; legal and ethical issues; among others. Throughout the course, discussions will center on the social determinants of health - neighborhood environments and strategies toward short and long term solutions in the elimination of health disparities and achieving health equity. Discussion about the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and recent Supreme Court rulings will also be integrated into many of the discussions.?