Contemporary Public Health Practice

This unit will examine the theoretical basis of the different approaches used in the practice of public health to prevent disease, prolong life, protect and promote health. It examines how these approaches form the foundation of organised and transdisciplinary efforts to address contemporary global public health challenges. Using both settings and place-based approaches students will examine how to create supportive environments for optimal health across the lifespan. Students will examine the role and efficacy of healthy public policy to promote equitable gains in health in diverse populations through addressing the social determinants of health. This unit will examine how research, health monitoring and surveillance are all used to inform evidence-based decision making in public health practice. Students will gain an appreciation of social justice, ethical practice, cultural safety and community engagement as central to finding local, sustainable and equitable solutions to improve health.