The aim of this module is to introduce students to the policy process and its analysis. Its focus is the exploration and analysis of factors influencing policy development and implementation. The module draws upon a range of theoretical approaches and introduces a range of frameworks to undertake policy analysis. The principles and analytic frameworks can be applied to high middle and low income countries.
The module content includes:
Defining and characterising health policy and its role in health systems
Exploration of the role of contextual factors in which health policy making occurs, including actors in the process
Understanding different stages in the process, how they are influenced and by whom
Power and policy
The role of research and evidence in policy making
Frameworks for undertaking policy analysis

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (12)
2 hours Individual e-mail based tutorials around assignment support
10 hours Tutor interventions in on-line group activitie

Guided Independent Study: (138)
50 hours Researching the subject through accessing on-line materials, including reference to case studies.
48 hours Preparation for Summative assessment
18 hours Group activities with peers
22 hours Case studies- on-line activities

BOOKS AND REPORTS

Baggott R. (2007), Understanding Health Policy. Bristol: Policy Press
Buse K., Mays N., Walt G., (2012), Making Health Policy Milton Keynes: Open University Press
Exworthy M. Peckham S. Powell M. Hann A. (2012) Shaping Health Policy: Case Study Methods and Analysis Bristol: Policy Press
Mahon A, Chambers N, Walshe K (2009) A Reader in Health Policy and Management. Berkshire: McGraw Hill

Access to IT resources and broadband capacity for Blackboard access.
Case study material indentified or developed by staff.
Specific recommended reading material for each seminar
Interactive sessions incorporating tutor and peer group discussion and support
Literature and references provided by academic staff
Library e- resources
Wider range of recommended reading

The assessment is an essay of 3500 words weighted at 100%.

Using a case study of a policy process you have encountered either in this module or elsewhere (including the media or your own experience), review the case using one of the theories of the policy process. Include in your analysis how the actors involved exercised power. When drawing your conclusions, reflect on your choice of theory or approach. (assesses all LO's)
In addition to key texts and research and policy literature (research papers and reports), a series of case studies from the health care sector will be used to explore the health systems and health services.
The module actively engages student in practising such analysis

Formative assessment/feedback:
Verval (on-line) feedback on practice case-studies