Bachelor of Science in Health Services Management and Planning · Second Year · HSM 2410
Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Develops skills in disease measurement, data interpretation, and statistical analysis for public health decision-making.
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Topic 1
Health Measurement and Indicators
Health Measurement and Indicators is a core topic in Epidemiology and Biostatistics for tertiary students in Zambia. This module explores key health indicators such as life expectancy, mortality, morbidity, anthropometric measures, and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL). Students will learn to define health using multidimensional frameworks, measure population health status, and apply tools like visual analogue scales, standard gamble, and time trade-off for valuation. Understanding determinants of health—biological, environmental, social, and economic—is emphasized. This knowledge is essential for evidence-based planning, monitoring health systems, and evaluating public health interventions in Zambia. Proficiency in health measurement is crucial for university examinations and for careers in epidemiology, health research, policy analysis, and health information management.
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Topic 2
Data Management and Quality Assurance
Data Management and Quality Assurance is an essential tertiary topic for Zambian university and college students in epidemiology, biostatistics, and health informatics programs. This topic covers the entire data lifecycle—from collection, entry, and cleaning to storage, analysis, and dissemination—with a strong emphasis on maintaining high data quality. Students will learn to implement quality control measures, conduct data quality assessments (DQAs), and apply the seven dimensions of data quality: accuracy, reliability, completeness, timeliness, precision, integrity, and confidentiality. The course includes practical techniques for data verification, such as trace and verification, documentation review, and the use of tools like the Routine Data Quality Assessment (RDQA). In Zambia, where robust health data systems are critical for disease surveillance, program evaluation, and policy-making, mastering data management and quality assurance is vital for careers in research institutions, Ministry of Health units, and international health agencies. This topic prepares learners to design and manage data systems that produce reliable, actionable information for improving public health outcomes in Zambia.
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Topic 3
Determinants of Health
Determinants of Health is a foundational topic for tertiary students in Zambia studying Epidemiology and Biostatistics or Public Health. This module explores the broad range of factors that influence individual and population health outcomes, categorized into biological, behavioral, social, economic, environmental, and health system determinants. Students will learn to analyze how factors such as income, education, housing, nutrition, genetics, and access to healthcare interact to shape health status and inequities. Understanding determinants is essential for conducting comprehensive health needs assessments, designing effective public health interventions, and advocating for multisectoral approaches to health improvement in Zambia. This knowledge is critical for university examinations and for careers in public health research, policy development, health promotion, and community health programming, enabling graduates to address root causes of health challenges.