This course gives students an understanding of the elements common to all medical care systems and the factors which influence the shape, cost, performance, and quality of health systems. Examples are drawn from countries whose wealth and stage of development vary widely. The interaction between the public and private components of the health sector is explored. Equity in health services is a crosscutting theme. Students learn about the organization, delivery, and financing of medical care and the strengths and weaknesses of alternative approaches to health care finance and delivery. The major problems in health care facing low- and middle-income countries and the strategic options available to these countries are addressed. The course is taught in an interactive lecture format. There is an emphasis on systems thinking and systems approach. All International Health concentrators, including domestic students, and MPH students who are not U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or Health Policy & Management concentrators may substitute this course for the health policy & management MPH core requirement course, PM702. Students who have taken PM702 for MPH degree credit may also take this course. There is very little overlap between the two courses. IH concentrators are given preference in registration but registration is open.

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the Student Link for the most up-to-date course information.