Medical Sociology: Inequity in Health, 7.5 credits

Contents

Concepts of inequity as well as methods of measuring inequity are described. The distinction between inequality and inequity is clarified. Ethical aspects of health inequity will be discussed. Techniques of assessing and analysing the health divide are outlined. Theoretical models explaining inequities in health will be introduced and public health measures to decrease inequities in health within different settings are discussed. Examples will be taken from states all over the world including both highly industrialised countries as well as low-income countries.

Expected learning outcomes

After completion of the course the student should be able to:

• explain different methods of measuring health inequalities.
• explain the major different theories of how health inequalities are created and maintained.
• explain different approaches to how health inequalities could be diminished
• independently make an analysis of health and health care from an equity perspective in a specific country.

Required Knowledge

Bachelors degree or equivalent within the health field or experience relevant to public health. Priority will be given to students accepted to the Master of Public Health programme.

Form of instruction

Teaching on the course is concentrated to two weeks during the course period. Teaching is conducted through lectures and group exercises. There are also seminars where students present and discuss their evaluation plans. These seminars are compulsory. Teaching is given in English.

Examination modes

The examination is done in two parts. At the end of the course there is a written exam. During the course the student shall in a seminar present his/her analysis of a health inequality problem in a specific country. The grading scale is Fail, Pass, and Pass with distinction both for the written exam and for the evaluation plan. In order to be awarded Pass for the course, the grade Pass is required for both the written exam and for the evaluation plan. In order to be awarded Pass with the distinction for the course, the grade Pass with distinction is required for both the written exam and for the evaluation plan.

For students who have not received a passing grade at the first written exam on the course, a re-sit exam is arranged. Correspondingly, an extra seminar is arranged for students who did not receive a passing grade on the evaluation plan. A student who fails two examinations has the right to a change of examiner according to the University's set of rules. A request to change examiner should be sent to the Board of the Faculty of Medicine.

Other regulations

Academic credit transfers are always reviewed individually according to the University's set of rules and academic credit transfer regulations.