Primary Health Care and Global Health (POPH90131)

The 1978 Alma Ata Declaration was a watershed moment in the development of health systems globally, influencing the evolution of primary health care (PHC) and global development practice to the present day. This subject will cover the principles and practice of community-based PHC with particular focus on resource-poor settings, whilst also considering the broader influence of PHC across health systems. Engaging with the history, principles and key elements of PHC, students will examine the various roles of community health groups and workers; PHC approaches to disease control; trends in global development for health; the role of global agencies and local health systems; and the current demographic and epidemiological trends affecting PHC. Drawing on global case studies and experience presented by experts with extensive field experience across Africa, Asia and Oceania, students will acquire a comprehensive understanding of the theory and practice of individual and community participation in PHC, as well as integrated, multi-sectoral and equity approaches to health. Students will develop the skills and strategies to critically examine PHC approaches and program design, and the current health and health system trends influencing community-based PHC globally.

Primary Health Care and Global Health is a dual delivery block mode intensive subject. This means that the assessable material is delivered through self-directed online modules that students complete over a two-week period. The online modules offer flexibility in relation to the timing of when students complete them, or what hours of the day you may choose to study. However, allocated modules must be completed in time to allow effective participation in live interactive sessions that are linked with those modules. Live interactive sessions are held on six days across the two-week period, in which module material is discussed with fellow students and lecturers. Students may choose to attend these live sessions online or face to face. Students are expected to commit approximately 40 hours to learning each week, comprised of learning modules, reading, discussion board activities, group work and live sessions. This two-week teaching period is followed by group work and independent learning towards three pieces of assessment to be completed over seven weeks.

This subject is an Australia-based alternative to POPH90137 “Primary Health Care in Jamkhed, India”. Students may not take both subjects.