Introduction to Health Policy

School of Medicine

The aim of this course is to provide students with an overview of the U.S. health care system and key features of its financing and delivery. We will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of our health care system, historical trends, and how we compare to other countries. Moreover, we will discuss the major components of the Affordable Care Act and implementation challenges going forward. Drawing on materials from different academic disciplines, including economics, political science, and sociology, the course will place particular emphasis on analytic approaches to evaluate policy impact. The course will address a range of topics, including the structure of the delivery system, drivers of spending growth, quality of care, and long-term care. No disciplinary background is assumed, nor is any special familiarity with the field of health care required. Required for students in the Epidemiology and Health Policy tracks of the MPH program.