CH 262 - Public Health Issues

Instructor: Dr. Eileen T. Hinks
Location: Maury-Brooke Hall 203
Date/Time: Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Credit Hours: 3

Broad definitions of public health emphasize: the role of society and community in the maintenance of the public’s health; a focus on prevention of disease and health promotion; and access to
health for all citizens. This course explores: the mission, structure, and functions of the U.S. public health system with its emphasis on population health; public health’s relationship to the medical care establishment; 20th century public health achievements and 21st century issues and challenges. Students will gain an awareness of gender, racial/ ethnic, and social / cultural and economic disparities that challenge the public’s health in a global society. The ecological view of health, health determinants, and risk factors for disease are explored. A basic introduction to surveillance (data collection / interpretation /communication) and descriptive and analytical epidemiology is included in order to introduce students to the science involved in assessing and developing policies that affect the public’s health. Prerequisite(s): CH 131 or CH 137 or BI 101