Health Care Management

COURSE OBJECTIVE
This course introduces organizational theories that are relevant to health care organizations. Students will practice in applying these theories to real-life problems in health organizations. Both approaches contribute to enabling students to:

• gain understanding of different management practices (Knowledge; Bridging theory and practice);
• analyse the influence of management practices on motivation of individuals (Research skills);
• understand and solve situations of conflict within health care organizations (Academic skills; Knowledge; Bridging theory and practice);
• develop strategies for health organizations (Research skills; Bridging theory and practice);
• have theoretical and practical insight into leadership and leadership styles (Knowledge; Bridging theory and practice);
• communicate effectively (Social skills);
• manage and coordinate teams of health care professionals (Knowledge; Social skills).

COURSE CONTENT
Health organizations are fast changing entities, partly driven by new technological developments and by social complexity. This course helps students how to effectively contribute to the performance in health care institutions. This requires a good understanding of the macro-elements of organizational behavior, such as management abilities and strategic orientation. The following subjects will be addressed: motivation, management of professionals, leadership and leadership styles, and communication. In this course, relevant management theories will be discussed and applied to the health care sector. Students will practice in work groups on the assignment to prepare a policy paper.

TEACHING METHODS
Lectures.
Tutorials.

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
Written exam – Individual assessment.
Assignment – Performance as project manager.