Bachelor of Science in Health Services Management and Planning · Fourth Year · HSM 4325
Health Policy and Systems Research
Builds research skills focused on health systems, policy analysis, and institutional performance.
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Topic 10Coming soon
Ethical Review of Health Systems Research
This advanced topic explores the conceptual and practical challenges of ethically reviewing Health Systems Research (HSR) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Zambia. It argues for a tailored ethical review process distinct from traditional clinical trial oversight, addressing eight key domains: the nature of system-level interventions, types of subjects (often groups or communities), differing units of intervention and observation, complexities of informed consent (including group consent), appropriate controls and comparisons in real-world settings, assessment of social and communal risks, inclusion of vulnerable groups, and defining benefits for communities and health systems. For tertiary students in Zambian universities specializing in public health, health policy, or research ethics, this module is crucial. It equips future researchers and ethics committee members to design and evaluate HSR protocols that are scientifically sound, ethically rigorous, and contextually appropriate, ensuring that health systems strengthening research in Zambia maximizes benefit and minimizes harm at a population level.
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Coming soon
Topic 11Coming soon
Public Health Training Needs Assessment
Public Health Training Needs Assessment is an advanced topic for tertiary students in Zambia engaged in Health Policy and Systems Research. This module examines methodologies for assessing skills gaps and training demands within health systems, with a focus on disciplines like health policy, health economics, and health services management. Students learn to design and conduct needs assessments using mixed-methods approaches, analyze quantitative and qualitative data, and translate findings into curriculum development and policy recommendations. This topic is critical for addressing human resource shortages, aligning academic programs with industry demands, and strengthening health systems in Zambia. Proficiency in training needs assessment is essential for roles in health education, workforce planning, and institutional development. Mastery supports exam success and contributes to building a competent public health workforce in Zambia.
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Topic 12
Health Policy Analysis and Planning
Health Policy Analysis and Planning is a core tertiary topic for Zambian students pursuing studies in Health Policy and Systems Research. This module equips learners with the skills to critically analyze existing health policies, understand their formulation and implementation processes, and design evidence-based policy alternatives. Students will explore frameworks for policy analysis, stakeholder mapping, political economy considerations, and the integration of equity and ethical dimensions into policy planning. In the Zambian context, this knowledge is essential for improving health governance, strengthening health systems, and advancing Universal Health Coverage. Mastery of health policy analysis is vital for university examinations and for careers in government ministries, NGOs, research institutions, and international health agencies. This topic prepares students to become informed policy advocates, analysts, and planners capable of driving systemic change in Zambia's health sector.
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Topic 13
Evidence-Based Policy and Knowledge Translation
Evidence-based policy and knowledge translation are essential for Zambian tertiary students engaged in health policy and systems research. This topic explores how research evidence informs policy decisions and how knowledge is mobilized to improve health outcomes. Students will examine barriers to evidence use, such as political interests, resource constraints, and lack of policy-relevant research, using cases like Lebanon's voluntary health insurance policy failure. The module covers strategies for effective knowledge translation, including stakeholder engagement, policy briefs, and deliberative dialogues. Learners will also explore the role of networks, media, and policy entrepreneurs in bridging the gap between research and policy. This knowledge is crucial for researchers, policy analysts, and advocates in Zambia who seek to ensure that health policies are grounded in robust evidence and contextual realities. Mastery of this topic enhances academic performance and professional capability to influence policy processes and contribute to evidence-informed health system strengthening in Zambia.