Module Aims

This module introduces key concepts in health services public health, focusing on the intersection between population health and health systems. Participants will develop an understanding of key themes including the WHO health systems building blocks and universal health coverage. The interplay between these varies globally; there is large variation even between high-income countries (HIC). The module will be particularly important for those pursuing careers in policy making, and health systems research and practice. 

Module Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to: 

1. List the WHO health system building blocks and their interactions
2. Discuss common challenges related to the building blocks and building resilient health systems in different contexts
3. Understand issues around globalisation of health workforce and task shifting to support different models of community-based health responses
4. Explore examples of how population health fits within the health system building blocks and the intersectoral nature of health systems
5. Debate need for universal health coverage and possible funding models
6. Explore some of the drivers of equity and access to quality health care
7. Understand importance of health information systems and how to develop a monitoring and evaluation framework.
8. Describe the challenges and examples of approaches to providing health care in face of societal disruption e.g. pandemics, natural disasters, for displaced populations, changing climate, disruption to technologies
9. Explore possible research methodologies for health systems public health
10. Consider how the changing world of technology is changing health systems now and, in the future
11. Understand the roles of systems that influence health determinants and the interaction with the health system for primary prevention of disease through intersectoral collaboration.

 Pre-requisites

• Principles of Public Health
• Principles of Epidemiology 

 Teaching Strategy

Teaching and learning will take place via a mix of lectures, group work and class discussions. Some reading may be required prior to some sessions. Teaching sessions will take place over four and a half days (typically 0930 to 1630). Teaching materials and resources are facilitated by Moodle, the University’s online Virtual Learning Environment. Whilst we are keen to do as much face-to-face teaching as possible, we take advantage of virtual tools to widen the lecturer base and allow students to benefit from perspectives of experts around the globe. Most sessions are interactive, with role play, debates and practicals.. 

Assessment

Each student prepares an e-poster on the one learning outcome they are most interested in and speak to their poster for a 3-minute flash talk, delivered a week after the module finishes. This could be an example of how public health and health systems interact in a particular country, a comparison of two different countries, or a more in-depth look at any of the learning outcomes.

Module Length

4.5 days