Foundations of Public Health and Social Justice

Catalog description

This course will examine public health and healthcare in the US, South Africa and globally using a social justice lens and emphasizing the interconnectedness of population and individual health. Using public health and healthcare delivery as the overarching framework, the course will cover foundational elements of public health, historical contributions and incorporate elements of social justice throughout the course. Students will learn about the social determinants of health and the influence this has on the health of a society. Students will gain an understanding of the complex nature of the person in the environment taking into consideration the dynamics of social oppression, diversity and social functioning and how biases, prejudice and oppression have led to health disparities. Through active learning in class, field trips and community engagement, students will be guided in becoming effective leaders to promote social justice and healthy communities. Course Director: Lars Osterberg, MD, MPH https://profiles.stanford.edu/lars-osterberg [email protected]