Health Policy and Advocacy

Catalog description

This course deepens students' understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of health policy in America, and the role of public health educators as agents of change. Current and historical health policies shaping healthcare in America will be discussed, including the significance of the socio-political milieu leading to health policy legislature. Students will learn about the role of health educator specialist to engage and inform others, as well as influence policy at the society level as part of the U.S. political process. Group presentations, research papers, class assignments and discussions will deepen students' knowledge of health policy and the contributions of health educators in shaping the dialogue of healthcare in America. Topics covered include health insurance and the managed care industries, the pharmaceutical industry, smoking, women's health, substance abuse, public health law and safety and the food industry.