HS2000:03
Social Constructions of Health in Australia
Townsville, Cairns
20 lectures, 20 tutorials. Second semester and by flexible delivery. Also offered at Mount Isa.
This subject introduces the student to social and cultural concepts of the origins of health and illness with a particular focus on Australia’s health system. Topics addressed include: biomedical and social models of health; the comparative health status of different social groups; factors influencing the preservation or marginalisation of health; the health professions; socio-political influences on health; the health care system; and the interrelationships between patients/clients, health care providers and health institutions. Issues that must be considered in planning health care services that are responsive to the needs of all community groups are broadly addressed.
Learning Objectives:
- demonstrate an understanding of the social, cultural and political dimensions of health and illness and health care delivery;
- discuss the ways in which health status and inequalities are socially constructed;
- describe and analyse the relationships between governments, bureaucracies, health professionals, consumer and other interest groups;
- discuss the political processes involved in health care policies and provision;
- incorporate social perspectives into nursing practice.
On-course assessment (100%).