NURS 6180 – Mechanism of Health Inequities at Saint Louis University is an advanced graduate-level course that delves into the multifaceted aspects of health inequities and their underlying mechanisms. The course encompasses a comprehensive exploration of various topics essential for understanding and addressing health disparities. The key areas covered include:
- Foundations of Health Inequities:
- Analyzing historical, social, and economic factors contributing to health disparities.
- Examining the impact of structural determinants on health outcomes.
- Theoretical Frameworks:
- Exploring theoretical models and frameworks that elucidate the mechanisms of health inequities.
- Critically assessing the relevance and application of these frameworks in different healthcare contexts.
- Intersectionality and Health:
- Investigating the intersectionality of social categories such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, and their combined impact on health disparities.
- Understanding how multiple axes of identity intersect and influence health outcomes.
- Public Health Policy and Health Disparities:
- Evaluating public health policies and their role in perpetuating or mitigating health inequities.
- Analyzing the implications of health policy decisions on vulnerable populations.
- Community-Based Approaches:
- Exploring community-driven interventions aimed at reducing health disparities.
- Assessing the effectiveness of community engagement strategies in promoting health equity.
- Research Methods in Health Inequities:
- Reviewing quantitative and qualitative research methods used to investigate health disparities.
- Developing skills in critically appraising research studies focused on health inequities.
- Ethical Considerations in Addressing Health Inequities:
- Examining ethical challenges associated with researching and addressing health disparities.
- Considering the ethical implications of interventions designed to reduce health inequities.
This course is designed for graduate students in nursing who are interested in gaining an in-depth understanding of the mechanisms driving health inequities. It equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to critically evaluate, research, and contribute to efforts aimed at eliminating health disparities. Additionally, the course fosters a comprehensive understanding of the ethical dimensions inherent in addressing health inequities, preparing students to navigate complex challenges in healthcare and public health domains.
