The module introduces key concepts in epidemiology and population and patient level health information.
The module will provide students with an understanding of: 1) why health information is important; 2) how to identify valid sources of health information; 3) health information systems in the UK; and 4) an overview of data governance, digital technologies and quality indicators. It will also provide an introduction to basic concepts in epidemiological methods used to identify and quantify disease and associated risks. Students will be introduced to descriptive epidemiology, measures and comparisons of disease occurrence (incidence, prevalence), and epidemiological study designs: ecological studies, cross-sectional studies, case-control studies, cohort studies, and randomised controlled trials. Students will analyse datasets relevant to each of these five study designs from a range of sources, including, for instance, Census and ONS data; Health Survey for England data; primary care data; and hospital data.
The module will enable students to appreciate the vast amount of accessible health information available, and value the impact of high-quality health intelligence in shaping public health policies and interventions.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate a critical understanding of the main techniques used to investigate the epidemiology of the important causes of death and ill health
Develop, collate and appraise suitable health information data and systems to describe given health conditions
Identify, interpret and discuss appropriate epidemiological study designs to address population health questions
Summarise, analyse, present and interpret epidemiological and statistical data appropriately
Critically analyse governance structures in handling health information
Assessment
37074-01 : Epidemiology Written Assignment : Coursework (50%)
37074-02 : Health Information Written Assignment : Coursework (50%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
Epidemiology (50%): Written assignment: analysis and reporting of a study dataset using an appropriate epidemiological study design.
Health Information (50%): 2000 word written assignment to investigate the epidemiology of a given health condition.
Student needs to pass both components (50% or above in each component: Epidemiology and Health Information)
