This course provides a foundation for students to examine factors that influence the health of communities and populations locally, nationally, and globally. Health promotion, health maintenance, and prevention of disease are emphasized. Epidemiological principles and data collection relating to clinical decision-making and public policy are discussed.

This is a multi-faceted course that focuses on the leadership roles of professional nurses, including the impact of health policy, health care financing, and legislative and regulatory authority on nursing practice and the health care delivery system. Collaborative practice will be examined with emphasis on professional values, accountability, role transition, and collegiality. The role of theory and research in nursing practice will also be examined.