NRS4315 Healthcare Relationships II: Understanding Difference Through a Lens of Comparative Healthcare Systems

This course provides students with an opportunity to expand their knowledge base in healthcare systems and delivery, develop intercultural awareness, and consider strategies for improving the lives of patients. Through a comparative lens, students gain a greater understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion within healthcare, while also developing an appreciation for how healthcare can and should be adapted to meet the needs of individual patients and communities, both domestically and overseas.

The location of the onsite course varies by year. Placing the patient at the center, the focus has largely been on preventative care and the concept of the “family doctor”. It has been renowned for medical advances and indicators such as vaccine levels, rivaling those of far wealthier nations. This case study will position the student to reflect back comparatively on health and the healthcare system in the U.S.

By exploring their own culture and biases and developing intercultural awareness, sensitivity, and humility, students will learn to provide individualized and responsive care. Students in this course will participate actively in a culturally unique community with local partners who are participating as the result of a needs assessment. Interpreters may be used at times, while at other times students will have to use their own language skills, applications, or find ways to best communicate. Through meaningful community-based learning, students will develop an understanding of the impact of differing cultural, spiritual, and healthcare practices, facilitating improved client-centered care in the U. S.

Credits

4 sh

Prerequisite

GBL 1315

Course Types

Experiential Learning Requirement

Offered

• Winter

Learning Outcomes

1. 1. Display sensitivity to diverse cultural beliefs and practices while developing self-awareness and self-confidence through exposure to and reflection on differences.
   a. Students will understand that notions of wellness and healing are culturally embedded concepts.
   b. Students will be able to discuss the ethical issues that emerge from diverse cultural healthcare systems.
   c. Students will understand transcultural healing practices and the cultural contexts in which they develop.
2. 2. Provide optimal service-learning in culturally diverse settings.
   a. Students’ will recognize and identify conflict resulting from different cultural beliefs and values.
   b. Students will demonstrate an understanding of how healthcare policy affects health systems and the health of the population
3. 3. Understand the importance of diversity and develop a life-long professional commitment to cultural competency.
   a. Students will develop and demonstrate the ability to empathize and care for clients who hold different identities.
   b. Students will demonstrate flexibility, responsiveness to others, and the willingness to learn from others.
   c. Students will exhibit the ability to regard clients as cultural informants.
4. GLO #2. Develop self-awareness and self-confidence through exposure to and reflection on the difference.
5. GLO #6. Understand the multiple dimensions of human experience within and across cultures and environments.