Module Aims

This module introduces key concepts in health services in 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. Explore examples of how population health fits within the health system building blocks
4. Debate need for universal health coverage and possible funding models
5. Understand issues around globalisation of health workforce and task shifting to support different models of community-based health responses
6. Understand 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 will take advantage of virtual tools to widen the lecturer base and allow students to benefits from the perspectives of experts around the globe. 

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 on the last day of the module. This should be prepared during breaks and in dedicated time on the fourth day. This could be an example of how public health and health systems interacts in a particular country, a comparison of two different countries, or a more in-depth look at any of the learning outcomes. Draw on concepts, frameworks, tools discussed in the module. There will be marks for understanding of concepts presented in the poster/ flash talk. Module leader and one other module speaker will assess. 

Module Length

4.5 days