Health and Medical Care Management, 10 credits

Bachelor's degree or professional qualification worth at least 180 credits in public health science, healthcare or other relevant social sciences subject area. Proficiency in the English language documented by an internationally recognized test such as TOEFL with a total score of at least 79 (internet based), 550 (paper based), 213 (computer based), IELTS with a total score of at least 6,0 (no band less than 5,0), or other documentation that certifies English language skills equivalent to English B at Swedish upper secondary school.

Aim
The aim of the course is to introduce students to the organisation and management of health care, and how these impact public health, with a special focus on contextual influences and change processes. An additional aim of the course is to identify the role of management research, in particular the use of qualitative methods in health care.

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of the course, students should be able to:

Knowledge and understanding
- describe relevant theories and frameworks for management and leadership in public health and health care and how these can be applied in different contexts;
- describe how management and leadership are influenced by the political context in which the organization operates;
- explain relevant research methods for studies of management, leadership and change.

Skills and abilities
- analyze the design and operations of  health care organizations using relevant management and leadership theories and frameworks in public health and healthcare;
- initiate, lead and support improvement efforts , including the planning, use of appropriate research and project management methods, clear presentation and discussion of conclusions;
- apply and explain relevant qualitative research methods for studies of management, leadership and change work.

Judgement and approach
- relate health care organizational analysis to relevant scientific, social and equity aspects, and demonstrate an awareness of ethical aspects of research and development.

During the course theories and practical approaches to management, leadership and improvement in health care will be introduced. Moreover, qualitative research methods in medical management will be explored.

The topics introduced will include:

• Organizational capabilities and organizational alignment
• Business model analysis
• Change management and leadership
• Project management
• Quality improvement
• Presentation technique
• Management research
• Qualitative research methods

The course will offer a mix of interactive lectures, seminars, group-work and individual assignments. Web-based learning and interaction will be used. Major parts of the course will be allocated to individual and group work assignments. Students will write diaries with reflections and comments on specific topics brought up during the course. Learning will be facilitated primarily through a group project in a health care setting, during which acquired knowledge and skills are applied.

- Individual written assignment.
- Individual contribution in written report and oral presentation of group work.
- Individual contribution during other compulsory course activities.

Requirements for the grade Pass with distinction (VG) are VG on the written assignment and on at least one of the other assignments, and pass (G) on remaining assignments. Det exakta innehållet i gruppuppgifterna definieras inför varje kurstillfälle.  

Compulsory participation
Participation in seminars and group work and in some lectures is mandatory. The course director assesses if, and in that case how, absence can be compensated. Before the student has participated in all compulsory parts or compensated absence in accordance with the course director's instructions, the student's results for the course/respective part will not be registered in LADOK.

The student has the right to write the exam six times. If the student has not passed the exam after four participations he/she is encouraged to visit the study advisor.

The number of times that the student has participated in one and the same examination is regarded as an examination session. Submission of a blank examination is regarded as an examination. An examination for which the student registered but not participated in will not be counted as an examination.

Examination will be provided during a time of two years after a possible cancellation of the course. Examination can take place according to an earlier literature list during a time of one year after the date when a major renewal of the literature list has been made.

Course evaluation will be carried out in accordance with the guidelines established by the Board of Education.

The course language is English.