HCI 301 - Evolution of Healthcare in the United States

5 CR

Previously HCTM 301.
To understand the complexities and nuances of the US healthcare systems we look to the past to discover how war, policy changes, and reforms have shaped the US healthcare system of today. We look at how healthcare is delivered to patients, how it is financed, and how providers are paid. We compare the US to international healthcare systems. The purpose of this course is to provide a solid basis of understanding of the US healthcare system: we examine its strengths and weaknesses, how it is financed and governed, and how it compares to other nations.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to any baccalaureate program at Bellevue College.

Course Outcomes

Discover how historical events, issues, and controversies led to the development of the United States (US) healthcare system.
Compare the US healthcare system to that of other countries.
Outline the role of federal, state, and local governments in the delivery of healthcare in the US.
Describe the types of healthcare organizations, their structure governance, and licensure along with the various delivery models that are responsible for providing healthcare.
Distinguish the various professionals who provide healthcare in the US, what education, certification, and licensure are required for each.
Examine how medical advancements bring ethical dilemmas, and how medical ethics is evolving and changing.
Describe the scope of Healthcare Information Technology and the role that healthcare informatics plays in it.
Determine the strengths and limitations of healthcare financing including how healthcare reform and policy change affect it.

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