James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2001

NS5100:03

Socio-Historical Context of Rural and Remote Health

Townsville

Flexible delivery. First semester

Staff: Mr J Morrissey.

This subject will focus on the socio-historical forces which have shaped health care in rural and remote Australia and influenced the culture of communities and their sub-cultures. It does so through contextualised examination of key episodes and developments in the provision of health care in Australia since 1788. These will include the impact of early settlement on Indigenous peoples and the environment; the influence of immigrant groups; consequences of isolation and myths surrounding rural and remote life.

Learning Objectives:

  1. the social and historical forces which have shaped health care delivery to rural and remote communities;
  2. critical analysis of the impact of social and historical forces on the health and welfare of Indigenous peoples, European settlers and other immigrants;
  3. identification of factors which reduce the opportunities for Indigenous peoples and other Australians in rural and remote settings to have access to appropriate health care;
  4. application of transcultural theory within the context of rural and remote health care practice.

Assessment by teletutorial presentation (30%); assignment (30%); assignment (40%).