Last chance to study this subject for 2025—enrol by 13 July
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The Australian Health Care System
PostgraduateUND-MEDI50042025
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Enrol by
- 13 July 2025
- Entry requirements
- Part of a degree
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Start dates
- 21 July 2025
- Price from
- $3,630
- Upfront cost
- $0
- Loan available
- FEE-HELP available
The Australian Health Care System
About this subject
On completion of this subject students should be able to achieve the following learning outcomes:
- Critique the structure, function and regulatory framework of Australia’s health system.
- Appraise the role of public policy in promoting health and preventing disease.
- Evaluate evidence-based approaches to tackling inequity and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.
- Explore the role of person-centred care, patient experience and the influence of consumer expectations and advocacy in the Australian health care system.
- Health Systems - Australia and the world
- The anatomy of the health system
- Facing Inequity
- Driving quality performance
- The future of health care
This subject will examine structure, financing and delivery of health care in Australia, including the roles and responsibilities of the Federal and State Governments along with the private sector. Broader public policy, regulatory, social, behavioural, environmental and community factors impacting the health of individuals and populations will be considered. The elements of the health ecosystem including the health services that form the continuum of care, and the social, economic and environmental determinants of health will be explored. Students will be encouraged to critically appraise the current Australian health system and its policies in comparison to key features and the performance of other health systems from around the world. The subject will also equip students with a basic understanding of health system design and the measurement of performance. Using a case-study approach, students will be challenged to identify the key elements of a health care system that is affordable, sustainable and of high quality. The emerging focus on person and family-centred care, and the challenges of chronic disease, health risk management, addressing inequities, global health issues and the introduction of new and emerging technologies, will also be examined. An online learning format will include digital resources; lectures and presentations from health industry leaders featuring the latest data and evidence; interactive workshops with expert panels; and small group discussion applying learning to current health and system challenges.
- Assessment of engagement and participation (20%)
- Written report (50%)
- Presentation (30%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
The University of Notre Dame Australia is committed to delivering an excellent student experience, alongside a high standard of teaching, research, and training. As a leader in ethical education, Notre Dame aims to develop students’ critical reasoning and their ability to make ethical decisions—crucial skills to progressing their careers and leading purposeful lives. At Notre Dame, students navigate their future with an ethical education online.
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Explore UNDA courses.
- QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 38
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 38
Entry requirements
Part of a degree
To enrol in this subject you must be accepted into one of the following degrees:
Core
- UND-HMS-GDI-2025 - Graduate Diploma of Health and Medical Sciences
- UND-HSC-GCE-2025 - Graduate Certificate in Health Sciences
Elective
- UND-HPE-MAS-2025 - Master of Health Leadership and Education
- UND-HPE-GDI-2025 - Graduate Diploma of Health Leadership and Education
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
Related degrees
Once you’ve completed this subject it can be credited towards one of the following courses
Graduate Diploma of Health and Medical Sciences
PostgraduateUND-HMS-GDI
Graduate Certificate in Health Sciences
PostgraduateUND-HSC-GCE
Master of Health Leadership and Education
PostgraduateUND-HPE-MAS
Graduate Diploma of Health Leadership and Education
PostgraduateUND-HPE-GDI