CH 262 - Public Health Issues

Instructor: Dr. Eileen T. Hinks
Location: Maury-Brooke 203
Date/Time: Monday-Friday 7:30-9:30 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. The delivery platform used to support students placed in isolation/quarantine during VMI Summer Session will be Zoom or Teams. Prerequisite(s): CH 131 or CH 137 or BI 101