Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 400841

Coordinator David Lim Opens in new window

Description Evidence is mounting that the health of individuals, groups and whole populations is significantly determined by social factors - the social determinants. The related research has its origins in concern for the growing inequalities in health both within and between countries. This unit examines the framework of the social determinants of health in a global perspective and includes a reflection on the phenomenon of globalisation and its impact, both positive and negative on people's health. Students will critically reflect on this relatively new and emerging body of knowledge and research which clearly situates the maintenance of health and healthy societies within their socioeconomic and socio-cultural contexts. They will also examine implications for policy, health systems and different groups within society.

School Health Sciences

Discipline Health, Not Elsewhere Classified.

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Level Postgraduate Coursework Level 7 subject

Restrictions

Students must be enrolled in a postgraduate program.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

1. Explain the social determinants of health in their global and local manifestations
2. Critically evaluate the evidence supporting the social determinants thesis and causal pathways offered to describe the link between social factors and inequitable health outcomes;
3. Critically analyse the impact of globalisation and social structure and processes on health inequalities within Australia and internationally;
4. Critically appraise the link between social stratification, differential exposure, differential susceptibility and differential consequences in generating health inequities
5. Critically assess the capacity of national health systems to reduce health inequities and have a better balance between acute care and prevention/health maintenance.

Subject Content

1. Social Determinants of Health and Illness
- The social health gradient ? international evidence; Health equity, equality and inequality
- Proximal and distal Determinants of health inequities
- The Global marketplace
2. Impacts of Globalization, on:
- policy making (World bank and WHO); political and economic structures and processes
- health professional training, manpower and Migration
- environments for health: local and Global, including climate change
3. Responses:
- frameworks for policy development using The social Determinants perspective
- frameworks for Analysing The links between globalization and health
- Reorienting health services
- inter-sectoral partnerships and collaboration