Healthcare Systems and Regulatory Environments

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of the U.S. healthcare system, covering the roles of providers, insurance companies, government agencies, and professional associations in shaping healthcare access, quality, and cost. Students will examine traditional and alternative payment models, regulatory frameworks, and the work of key federal agencies like the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), alongside global health organizations. The course also addresses supply and demand projections for healthcare personnel, preparing students to understand and navigate workforce challenges in a rapidly changing environment. The course places a strong emphasis on health equity, critically analyzing the impact of social determinants of health and systemic disparities. Students will explore healthcare reform efforts, workforce challenges, and major public health issues.