Special Topics in Global Health (390-0-32)

Topic

Achieving Global Impact through Local Engagement

Instructors

Michael Diamond
847/467-1580

Meeting Info

Parkes Hall 213: Tues 1:00PM - 3:50PM

Overview of class

Reducing chronic diseases and controlling infectious diseases are no longer just the responsibility of national governments, private health care institutions, city departments of public health, or community physicians. Cardio-vascular disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, obesity and diabetes, substance abuse such as opioids, tobacco and alcohol, and a range of health safety issues are now the major causes of death throughout the world. In addition, especially in low resource countries and communities, people are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases such as HIV and AIDS, Zika, Ebola, Malaria, Tuberculosis, Diarrheal diseases, as well as other viruses, parasites and antibiotic resistant bacteria. With the understanding that a healthy society is also a more economically productive society, there is an increased emphasis on reducing the burden of disease in local communities throughout the world. As a result, there is an enormous increase in the number of organizations and programs that are being implemented by the three sectors of society, public, private and civil society. This course is designed for those global health students who are seeking ways to have an impact on these global health issues by engaging in local programs and organizations which are addressing these global health challenges.

Students will study global and local mechanisms and patterns of the circulation of disease, and their relation to environmental, cultural, socio-economic and political influences. Students will explore and evaluate roles and programs of global and local public, private and civil society sectors in addressing specific health issues and consider ways to improve outcomes.

Each student is expected to identify a local organization or program with which they would like to volunteer during the quarter. Students will examine the programs and the geographical regions of these organizations and identify the specific opportunities and roles that are available to them as volunteers, and as professionals. Special attention will be given to understanding due diligence, accountability and mechanisms for measuring and improving impact.

Class Materials (Required)

Mann, MIchael and Peter Hotez, (2025) Science Under Siege: How to Fight the Five Most Powerful Forces that Threaten Our World, Public Affairs, ISBN: 9781541705494

Platak, Jaclyn and Jessica Sowa (2024) Volunteer Management: A Strategic Approach, Taylor & Francis ISBN: 978-1032383668

Rosenberg, Mark, Elizabeth Hayes, Margaret McIntyre and Nancy Neill. (2010) Real Collaboration: What It Takes for Global Health to Succeed. California/Milbank Books on Health and the Public, ISBN: 978-0520259515

Class Attributes

No Freshmen

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: No freshmen allowed. Pre-registration is for Global Health Studies Majors and Minor only. Registration is open to other students after pre-registration.