Simmons College

Hlth Care Pol and Soc Action

SW554: Healthcare Policy and Social Action In this course students will gain understanding of health care policy and health care services in the U. S. The culture of illness and society's response to health care needs of individuals will be examined. We will also examine historical and contemporary health policy, as well as social, economic, political, and cultural theories of health and illness, poverty and social justice related to affordability, availability and accessibility of health care services. Managed care models, health maintenance organizations, community health centers, and private practice in health care, financing health care through private and public funding streams (e.g., Medicaid, Medicare, SCHIP, Employer provided, etc.) will also be analyzed for their utility. This course will focus on theories and practice of advocacy and, social and political action that promote social justice within organizations, the larger community, and society. Students will apply the knowledge gained to formulate, influence, and advocate for policy changes in health care delivery at the organizational and/or state and federal level. Prerequisite is SW401A&B. This course meets the requirement for a social action elective.