This class will use a case-based approach to explore the influence of human culture on health policy, management and practice, providing a background to the disparities in health found within the United States. In order to provide a unifying context for these explorations, the class will include a general introduction to global health. This introduction will identify the influences of culture, religion and resources on global health decisions as experienced by major health organizations. Some examples of the specific topics that this class will cover include population screening for disease and carrier predictions, domestic and global issues for newborns and adults, and geographical distributions of disease. All topics will integrate economic, technical, political, ethical and personal challenges experienced by a professional. Students will be encouraged to propose potential solutions and management solutions to real-world issues in health care.