Business of Health - HPOL5006

Healthcare is now one of the largest employers and sectors in the Australian economy. Approximately two thirds of its funding comes from government, while two thirds of services are provided by the private sector. This unit explores this complex mix, building an understanding of the inter-relationships among the players in the industry, public and private. The course will explore the financial and regulatory environment in which providers operate and identify the main business models used by different players in the industry, including service providers, private insurers, employers, and government regulators. The unit draws on expert lecturers, international comparisons and case studies to give an understanding of the incentives and constraints that shape strategies to create value in health care. Learning outcomes. By the end of the unit students will: (i) have an understanding of the 'eco-system' of health care; (ii) be able to navigate the regulatory and technological aspects of business in the health sector; (iii) be able to identify and evaluate public and private business strategies in the main health care sectors.

Classes
block/intensive mode - 5 days, 9am-5pm with preliminary online readings.

Assessment
workshop tutorial assessments and presentation (20%); 1x2000wd report (30%); 1x3000 wd essay (50%)

Textbooks
Buse K, Mays N, Walt G (2012). Making health policy. Second edition. Open University Press: London. Other required and recommended reading materials available from elearning site.

Additional information
Students need to demonstrate at least one year's work experience in a related field. A waiver would be granted for students enrolled in MHPOL or MBA as this is already a course requirement of these programs.