This course introduces the student to how the health care system works. The focus is on basic principles of health policy and system failures. Topics include reimbursement, access to health care, workforce, quality assurance and long-term health care. Other areas of focus include public policy, funding issues, health care disparities, managed care and the medically underserved. The course will conclude with an opportunity to review and discuss moral and ethical issues in health care from the perspective of a physician assistant.