Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Health systems are a dynamic and complex set of organisations people, practices, financial arrangements, and consumer-provider-payer interactions. To understand the way health systems function to protect health and treat illness, it is necessary to understand the organisations involved, the goals and influence of other major stakeholders, and the administrative and financial frameworks that support and regulate functions. Models of resource allocation are evaluated within an understanding of existing disease profiles, prevention options and with a focus on effectiveness, efficiency and equity. Current health policy initiatives are assessed in terms of organisational reforms and alternative methods of funding. The academic objectives of this unit are to enable students to examine and critically appraise health systems in the context of options for their organisation and funding.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 core unit in the Public Health major sequence
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) compare aspects of Australian and international health systems; (2) discuss the role of equity in the financing and management of health systems; (3) discuss the role of economics and economic evaluation in health care and healthcare systems; (4) discuss efficiency, resource allocation and the factors determining the demand supply of health services; (5) evaluate policies in resource allocation and health care; and (6) evaluate the role of population health in the healthcare system.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) mid-semester quiz and written academic essay involving critical evaluation of a topic; (2) final examination; and (3) ongoing progress in the unit may be assessed through tutorial participation. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Enamul Hoque (00113654)
Unit rules
Prerequisites
PUBH2204 Disease Prevention and Control
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours
tutorials: 1 hour
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.