Course Description

This course introduces tools and frameworks for identifying health disparities and designing strategies to improve health equity and population health. It examines the history and scope of health disparities, investigates the role of social determinants of health, the development of a health equity framework, and innovative approaches to rectifying inequities. Coursework includes using maps and data to explore the intersection of geography, demographics, and health.

Course Topics
  • Definitions and causes of health disparities
  • Health disparities to health equity—policy implications
  • 7 As of Access
  • Inclusive policymaking
  • Tools and strategies for improving health equity

An introduction to the course with Kevin Ahmaad Jenkins, PhD, and original course creator Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, MD, MBA

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  • Explain the differences between equality and equity.
  • Identify health disparities and social determinants of health that adversely affect the health of specific populations.
  • Evaluate the effects of the social determinants of health on groups within a given geographic area.

  • Apply equity-based frameworks to policy design with the goal of advancing health in a specific community.