This course will give students an overview of the health policy mechanisms (legislative, regulatory and private) that shape the way health care is delivered in the U.S. The course will show how policy translates into practice in the context of important health care issues such as insurance coverage such as private commercial insurance, Medicare and Medicaid. The course will give students an orientation into health policy challenges of the future like national health insurance, shortages of medical care professionals and facilities and the effective use of resources in a resource-short environment.

Prerequisite: HSAM1100 or HSAM1250