HLTH 4011 - Issues in Health Care

Course Description

This capstone course brings together the knowledge and skills students have acquired throughout their degree program while exploring current and emerging issues in health care. Students will examine the funding and structure of the Canadian healthcare system, including the legacy of colonialism and its ongoing effects on Indigenous health care. The course will also focus on underserved populations, analyzing their situations through the lens of social determinants of health. Key topics such as the impact of trauma, health literacy, and the influence of misinformation and disinformation will be discussed. Additionally, students will enhance their professional communication, collaboration, and advocacy skills through development of an actionable advocacy plan that addresses a relevant issue of their choice.

Learning outcomes

• Describe federal and provincial funding and areas of responsibility within the Canadian healthcare system.
• Describe underserved populations and how the social determinants of health impact individuals, communities, and the healthcare system.
• Analyze current and emerging issues in Canadian health care.
• Apply principles of evidence-based, ethical, and professional practice.
• Demonstrate comprehensive professional communication and advocacy skills.

Course topics

• Week 1: Introduction to Current and Emerging Issues in Health Care
• Week 2: Legislative and Funding Frameworks
• Week 3: The Indian Act and Indigenous Health Governance
• Week 4: Social Determinants of Health
• Week 5: Moving Upstream: Reimagining Health Through Social Determinants and Collective Action
• Week 6: Trauma- and Violence-Informed Care
• Week 7: Health Literacy
• Week 8: Misinformation and Disinformation in Health Care
• Week 9: Evidence-Informed Practice
• Week 10: From Rhetoric to Lived Reality in Health Care
• Week 11: Professional Communication and Advocacy
• Week 12: Collaborate With Your Group
• Week 13: Group Presentations and Course Wrap-Up

Required text and materials

There are no required materials for this course.

Assessments

To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course and 50% or higher on the mandatory Final Project.

Recommended requisite(s)

Familiarity with health care issues in Canada and fourth-year standing are strongly recommended.