Health System Transformation

The U.S. health care system is characterized by unsustainable costs, inconsistent quality, and unequal access. Health care leaders, managers and policy-makers must understand how to improve systems of care in a complex health care environment. This course will provoke critical thinking and address contemporary approaches to health care system change. Articles and case studies will be provided to illustrate how health care organizations improve quality, equity, and cost, and how policy incentivizes or hinders constructive system change. Examples will mainly be drawn from the health care field; however, system transformation knowledge is important for the business, non-profit, government, and social services sectors as well, and students from these disciplines may apply concepts taught in class to their sector interests. Students will reflect on their professional experience and internships and consider how systems around them can be improved. Students will review literature from a variety of academic and professional disciplines relating to health care quality, health equity, science of improvement, and transformation, and apply this knowledge to local, state, and national settings. Prerequisite - preferred but not required: The U.S. Health Care System, PPHA 37510/ SSAD 47512/HSTD 35411.