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.