module specification

This module provides an opportunity for in-depth inquiry at an advanced level into the ethical dimensions of contemporary healthcare and public health, and examines the application of normative ethical theories and approaches to practical dilemmas in healthcare. It explores professional and personal moral values in relation to ethical issues in healthcare and public health, and critically explores connections and contradictions between ethical theory, sector-specific professional ethics, policy and law. 

The module aims to:
● Develop your knowledge and understanding of the ethical dimensions of contemporary healthcare
● Apply appropriate skills and knowledge when critically inquiring into contemporary ethical issues in healthcare
● Test your criticality and analytic skills in relation to ethical practice in healthcare
● Provide opportunities to reflect critically on negotiating personal moral values in relation to ethical issues in professional healthcare practice

The indicative syllabus includes: The place of ethics in healthcare and public health (LO1). A review of normative ethical theories and approaches relevant to healthcare policy and practice (LO2). Law, policy and codes of ethics in healthcare (LO2). Various topics which may include: autonomy, competence and consent in healthcare; resource allocation and priority setting in healthcare; Fairness & equity in health care; Public health ethics; Global health ethics; QUALY systems; cultural diversity in healthcare; human rights and healthcare;  ethics of the health-worker/patient relationship; ethical dimensions of various practices in primary care & wider health-related contexts; how social theories can contribute to an understanding of ethical dilemmas in healthcare (LO 1,2,3,4).

The module will be presented through an integrated programme of interactive mini-lectures, seminars, tutorials and small-group work, together with the guided use of student-centred learning resources via the VLE. Lectures will be provided to give a conceptual framework. Student-centred assignments will enable students to reinforce and expand their knowledge, and develop subject-specific skills and competence

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

● Identify the ethical dimensions of contemporary issues in healthcare 
● Be able to locate those aspects within the framework of normative ethics and professional ethical decision-making
● Demonstrate capacities for ethical decision-making in healthcare contexts
● Demonstrate the ability to reflect critically on personal ethical beliefs with respect to ethical issues in healthcare

This module will be assessed by two scheduled summative assessment components:

(i) an oral presentation (LO 1,2,3,4)
(ii) a coursework essay (3000 words) focussing on the application of ethical theories or approaches to an ethical dilemma in healthcare (LO 1,2,3,4)
The first assessment is an oral presentation identifying an ethical issue in contemporary healthcare and providing a brief critical overview of the issue. This is weighted at 30%. It provides an opportunity to develop skills of verbally summarising key points, and to receive feedback to guide you with approaching your second assessment.

The second assessment is a 3000 word essay, weighted at 70%. It enables you to develop an in-depth written critical discussion of the same topic addressed in the first assessment, with the opportunity to prepare a written application of ethical reasoning and decision making.

● See Online Reading List for which texts are Core and Additional readings, and which are available as E-books or hard copies.

https://rl.talis.com/3/londonmet/lists/1E9061D9-89AF-DB76-AACE-9112A80B9B64.html?lang=en