The Local/Global Health Seminar Series Elective offered by the College of Medicine, University of Florida, helps students explore how environmental, social, cultural, political, economic, and healthcare system factors affect the health of individuals and communities. A strong focus is placed on human rights and social justice.
The seminar provides essential knowledge about health disparities in the US and globally and how to address them using proven interventions. Students are introduced to professionals involved in public and global health, and gain insights into careers that focus on serving underserved populations through healthcare, education, advocacy, and policy.
Course Overview
Course Title: Local/Global Health Seminar Series Elective
Institution: University of Florida, College of Medicine
Meeting Time: Thursdays, 1–3 PM
Location: HMEB (Health Science Center)
Format: Seminar-based discussions
Course Faculty and Staff
Name
Role
Elizabeth DeVos MD
Co-Director
Laura Guyer
Co-Director
Isaac Freeman
Course Staff
Learning Objectives
Understanding of the ecological/social determinants model of health.
Knowledge and skills to assess health needs in low-resource settings.
Preparation to collaborate on local and global health projects.
Ability to work effectively across language and cultural boundaries.
Course Competencies
Competency Area
Details
Philosophic and Conceptual Frameworks
Knowledge of social determinants of health, ecologic models, human rights, and social justice frameworks.
Determinants of Health
Knowledge of social determinants of health, ecological models, human rights, and social justice frameworks.
Healthcare Trends and Systems
Awareness of how local, national, and global trends influence healthcare access and quality.
Barriers and Delivery Strategies
Insight into obstacles to care and evidence-based delivery strategies, including community-based and primary care models.
Cultural and Ethical Awareness
Recognition of ethical and cultural issues when working with underserved populations.
Clinical Skills
Development of clinical abilities to manage diverse health problems in resource-poor environments.
Weekly Topics and Materials
Weekly Themes: Topics cover health disparities, global health policies, public health systems, and social justice in healthcare.
Course Materials: Provided electronically before each class, including:
Textbook chapters
Journal articles
Online resources
Type of Material
Purpose
Textbook Chapters
Provide background theory and concepts
Journal Articles
Offer real-world studies and findings
Online Resources
Supplement discussion with up-to-date information
Key Areas of Study
Health Systems Comparison: Study of healthcare structures in the United States and other countries.
Health Inequities: Focus on unequal health outcomes and access to services due to social and economic factors.
Global Interventions: Examination of evidence-based practices and international programs that aim to improve population health.
Cross-Cultural Communication: Learning to work with diverse populations, understanding cultural norms, and addressing language barriers.
Service-Oriented Careers: Encouragement for students to pursue roles in clinical care, research, public health, or policy-making for underserved communities.
Benefits for Students
Benefit
Description
Broader Perspective
Understanding of how global issues impact local health.
Improved Cultural Competency
Skills for working in multilingual and multicultural environments.
Foundation for Global Health Careers
Preparation for public health, NGO work, or policy development.
Team Collaboration Skills
Experience working in interdisciplinary teams with common goals.
Practical Applications
Local Community Engagement: Opportunities to apply learning in Florida communities dealing with health disparities.
Global Health Projects: Exposure to international case studies and fieldwork opportunities through UF programs.
Policy and Advocacy: Training on how to influence health policies to promote equity and access.
Seminar Format
Component
Explanation
Interactive Discussions
Encourages dialogue on weekly themes.
Guest Speakers
Provides insight from experienced professionals in global health.
Case Studies
Offers real-life scenarios to apply theoretical frameworks.
Collaborative Learning
Fosters teamwork and peer-to-peer learning.
Career Pathways Encouraged
Clinical Service
Academic Research
Teaching in Health Education
Health Policy Development
Public Health Project Leadership
Student Impact
Stronger Understanding of global health challenges and solutions.
Enhanced Empathy when dealing with diverse populations.
Preparedness to serve in environments with limited resources.
Commitment to ethical service and social justice in medicine.
The Local/Global Health Seminar Series Elective offers a unique opportunity for students at the University of Florida to understand the complex web of factors influencing health both locally and globally. A rich mix of theory, discussion, and real-world application prepares future healthcare professionals to serve underserved populations with compassion and insight.
The seminar encourages students to become change-makers in health equity, whether through service, policy, or education. With a strong grounding in human rights, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based interventions, students gain the skills and mindset needed to make a lasting impact in any healthcare setting.
