Health Policy in Action: Economics, Advocacy, and Analysis

Catalog description

This course offers insights into the political, social, and economic dimensions of health policymaking in the United States. Students analyze how political institutions, interest groups, public opinion, lobbying, and regulatory processes shape federal and state health policies. An integrated health economics component introduces healthcare financing, insurance markets, cost-benefit analysis, and economic drivers of policy decisions. Through applied case studies and experiential learning opportunities, including participation in Day on the Hill, students analyze the intersections between health policy and related domains, such as housing, social services, and Medicaid expansion. Emphasis is placed on evidence-informed policy analysis, evaluation, and strategic communication. Students develop the analytic and writing skills necessary to translate public health evidence into policy recommendations and assess the population-level impacts of health policy decisions.