Global Health Learning Modules:

Introduction to Global Health

Welcome to the Introduction to Global Health Learning Module!  This module should take approximately 1 hour to complete.

Part 1:  What is Global Health?  

What is Global Health?  What are some key words, images, or concepts that come to mind?  You may think of an international or domestic setting; you may picture infectious disease, malnutrition, or poverty; concepts like justice and equity may come to mind.  

Please review this powerpoint to become familiar with some key definitions and concepts in global health.  Be able to define global health, the key concepts of global health listed in the powerpoint, key terms used used to describe socioeconomic status, and key players in the world of Global Health.  

Part 2:  Close-Up of Global Health Tensions - Mountains Beyond Mountains

Global Health often involves a tension between individual and public health.  As the "River Parable" in the powerpoint illustrates, it can pose quite a dilemma to know how to ethically engage in Global Health in a world of limited resources.  It is impossible to measure the value of an individual life--each one is priceless; and yet, healthcare must be done in a way that is as sustainable as possible, and making the most difference for the greatest number of people is an important part of the equation.  Dr. Paul Farmer is a well known anthropologist and infectious disease specialist who became engaged in Global Health in Haiti, where he founded "Partners in Health" and has actively advocated for a human rights-based approach as a key ethical guide in Global Health.  Please read the bracketed areas only in the following excerpts from Tracy Kidder's well-known biography of Paul Farmer, Mountains Beyond Mountains:  Mountains Beyond Mountains Excerpt (pp20-25, 29-30, 36, 36-38, 41-42).  What do you find refreshing or challenging or thought-provoking in the selections about Paul Farmer?

Part 3:  Primary Care in Global Health

Next, read the Declaration of Alma Ata.  Written in 1978, this declaration is famous for its emphasis on health as a human right and "primary healthcare" as a centerpiece for achieving the goal of health for all.  Understand the importance of this document and list the features of primary healthcare.  

Part 4:  Optimism in Global Health?  

Global Health often interfaces with poverty and limited resources.  Are you and optimist or a pessimist regarding the current state of the world and health?  Please watch this part of this Ted Talk video by U2's Bono for some encouragement regarding the health status of the world (You only need to watch from 3:35 - 8:05).  

Part 5:  Quiz/Feedback

Please complete this Quiz/Feedback Form to finish your module.  

If you would like to delve into this topic more, some optional suggested readings/resources are below.  

  • Toward a Common Definition of Global Health (Lancet, 2009) (Optional reading)
  • What is Global Health Mini-Video
  • Take the "Gap Minder" test to see if you know your global facts (LINK)
  • The State of Global Health (10 Facts)(TWIGH Video: Scroll down to find the video on Greg Martin's page)
  • Global Health Careers (TWIGH Video: Scroll down to find the video on Greg Martin's page)